India Faces Extreme Heat, With Consequences For Public Health

In recent months, India has experienced severe and prolonged heatwaves, causing distress to the nation. From public health concerns to economic and social issues, the impact of extreme heat on India's population continues to grow in intensity.

Heatwaves are no longer a rare occurrence but have become more frequent since the 1980s. In the summer months of May to June, temperatures often exceed 40 degrees Celsius in parts of southern India with severe drought conditions adding another layer of complexity. When this happens in other areas like northern and eastern regions, it is just as hot or even hotter than those experiencing drought.

India's government has established guidelines for managing heat-related illnesses with public awareness programs about reducing the risks associated with extreme temperatures a vital step forward.

But these efforts are not alone; organizations at various levels from municipal authorities to environmental groups in partnership with NGOs and individuals across the spectrum will work jointly to help fight climate change with other people.

If India is aware of what it needs, just one look at today's climate issues would make us understand better about where our country stands currently. The alarming trend of global warming and changing temperature patterns is a reality we are increasingly experiencing due to several factors such as increase in greenhouse gases and carbon emissions from vehicles and industries.