PARLIAMENT QUESTION: IMPACT OF HEAT STRESS

PARLIAMENT QUESTION: IMPACT OF HEAT STRESS

In India, there are no heat-related data or research studies to indicate the extent of impact of heat stress on the categories of people mentioned here. However, some studies conducted in other parts of the world have shown that the poor, the marginalised, migrants, subsistence workers, women, and the elderly are more prone to the impact of heat stress.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has published the Climate Hazard & Vulnerability Atlas of India, prepared for heatwaves across the country, and this is based on casualties associated with the severe heatwaves. It is mainly for the users of the disaster management sectors to identify the vulnerable districts affected by the heatwave for taking preventive and adaptive measures. This vulnerability maps, vulnerability assessment are at the district level. https://imdpune.gov.in/hazardatlas/abouthazard.html. 

It was known to researchers during older days that urban areas have a higher temperature than rural areas. Heat Action Plan (HAP) became operational on an experimental basis in Ahmedabad during the summer of 2013, and till today, it has been operational in 23 States by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in coordination with various State and Central Agencies, including IMD, prone to high temperatures leading to heatwave conditions, and developing heat action plans.

HAPs are designed by the local level agencies, considering the administrative and management requirements at the ground level. IMD plays a crucial role by providing meteorological information and warning services. Subsequently, the actions are taken by different stakeholders at the local government bodies and associated NGOs. IMD provides all support as and when required in the level development of HAPs for meteorological information, monitoring day-to-day conditions, forecasts at seasonal to monthly scales, early warning for timely preparedness and implementation of mitigation measures well in advance.

This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, MoS Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Department of Atomic Energy and Department of Space, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.