Answer

Heatwaves, defined by the IMD as prolonged periods of abnormally high temperatures exceeding 40°C in plains, have intensified in India due to climate change. In 2024, 554 heatwave days were observed over the Indian region, compared to 230 days in 2023. The early onset of summer is disrupting agriculture, water availability, and public health, necessitating urgent mitigation efforts.

Early Onset of Summer and Rising Heatwaves in India

• Unprecedented February Heat: February, traditionally a winter month, witnessed temperatures exceeding 40°C in Odisha, Telangana, and Maharashtra, indicating shifting climate norms.
  For example: In February 2025, Mumbai recorded its hottest February day in 5 years at 38.7°C, disrupting daily life and increasing heat-related illnesses.
• Increased Frequency of Heatwaves: Rising global temperatures have led to more frequent and intense heat waves, stressing urban and rural populations.
• Nighttime Temperature Anomalies: 31 States and UTs recorded night temperatures 1°C above normal, while 22 States saw a 3°C-5°C rise, impacting cooling mechanisms.
  For example: Delhi recorded its warmest February night in 74 years in 2024, increasing heat stress and reducing recovery time for vulnerable populations.
• Impact of Rising Sea Temperatures: Marine heatwaves contribute to warmer inland temperatures, intensifying heatwaves and altering monsoon patterns.
  For example: The Bay of Bengal experienced marine heatwaves in 2023, leading to delayed monsoons and extreme pre-monsoon heat in eastern India.
• Urban Heat Island Effect: Cities experience higher temperatures due to concrete surfaces, low greenery, and heat-trapping pollutants, worsening the heat crisis.
  For example: Ahmedabad’s urban areas recorded 3-4°C higher temperatures than surrounding rural regions in April 2023, aggravating heat stress.

Implications of Changing Climate Patterns

Way Ahead

• Comprehensive National Heat Plan: India must integrate heat wave mitigation into its National Adaptation Plan, ensuring coordination among states.
  For example: Ahmedabad’s Heat Action Plan (2013) avoids 1190 heat wave deaths annually, serving as a model for other cities.
• Sustainable Cooling Infrastructure: Promote green buildings, passive cooling, and heat-resistant materials in urban planning.
  For example: Telangana’s Cool Roof Policy (2021) mandates heat-reflective roofs, lowering indoor temperatures and reducing electricity demand.
• Greening and Water Retention Measures: Increase tree cover, rooftop gardens, and water bodies to lower ambient temperatures.
  For example: Delhi’s urban forests initiative helped reduce local temperatures by 2-3°C in several hotspots.
• Early Warning Systems and Mapping: Expand local weather monitoring, heatwave forecasting, and urban heat island mapping.
• Occupational and Social Protection Policies: Ensure heat insurance, adjusted work hours, and cooling shelters for vulnerable workers.
  For example: Rajasthan’s Heat Insurance Pilot (2023) provided financial compensation to daily-wage workers for extreme heat days.

Rising heat waves demand urgent climate-adaptive planning. Strengthening early warning systems, heat action plans, and resilient infrastructure is critical. Urban greening, reflective roofing, and sustainable water management must be prioritized. Expanding Mahatma Gandhi NREGA for climate resilience and enforcing cooling-centric urban policies will safeguard public health, livelihoods, and future sustainability.