Heat Action Plans in India: Gaps and Challenges

Context

With rising extreme heat events due to climate change, Heat Action Plans (HAPs) are crucial for protecting vulnerable populations. However, a recent study reveals that most Indian cities lack effective long-term strategies, making them ill-prepared for future heat risks.

Background

• The study, "Is India Ready for a Warming World?", was conducted by the Sustainable Futures Collaborative (SFC), a New Delhi-based research organization.

• It analyzed HAP implementation for 11% of India’s urban population across nine high-risk cities.

What is a Heat Action Plan (HAP)?

• A preparedness and early warning system for extreme heat events.

• Aims to reduce heat-related deaths and illnesses by improving coordination, public awareness, and emergency response.

• Includes short-term measures (immediate relief) and long-term strategies (urban planning, infrastructure upgrades).

Current Government Initiatives

• The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), in collaboration with state governments, has implemented HAPs in 23 heatwave-prone states.

• According to a Lok Sabha response:

  • Heatstroke deaths increased from 530 (2020) to 730 (2022).

  • In 2024, reported cases dropped to 269 suspected deaths and 161 confirmed deaths.

Study Methodology

• Selection of Cities: Cities with over 1 million population (2011 Census) and high projected heat index values.

• Cities Analyzed: Bengaluru, Delhi, Faridabad, Gwalior, Kota, Ludhiana, Meerut, Mumbai, and Surat.

• Interviews Conducted: Government officials from disaster management, health, urban planning, and labour departments.

Key Findings

1. Short-Term Measures Exist, But No Long-Term Vision

• Emergency actions like drinking water availability and adjusted work schedules are in place.

• Comprehensive long-term strategies are missing, including:

  • Cooling solutions for vulnerable workers and households.

  • Insurance coverage for heat-induced work losses.

  • Fire management services for heat waves.

  • Electricity grid improvements to ensure reliable transmission and distribution.

2. Poorly Targeted Urban Interventions

• Green cover and open spaces expanded, but without focusing on high-risk populations.

• Lack of integrated urban planning to reduce heat exposure in densely populated areas.

3. Health-Focused Approach, But Prevention Lags

• HAPs prioritize healthcare preparedness (hospitals, emergency response) over preventive strategies.

• More funding is required to implement long-term actions effectively.

Conclusion

• Extreme heat is a growing climate risk in India, demanding stronger policy action.

• Urban resilience planning must focus on infrastructure, public awareness, and funding.

• HAPs should integrate environmental, health, and economic solutions to ensure sustainable heat adaptation.