Is India Prepared for the New Normal of Heatwaves? Discover How Singapore’s 3-Step Strategy Can Help Cool the Nation!

India is facing a tough situation with extreme weather and rising temperatures. In many states, like Delhi, temperatures have already hit 40 degrees Celsius and are expected to climb even higher. This unusual heat during what is typically considered spring is alarming.

According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), this heatwave is more intense than in previous years. For instance, February was reported as the hottest in 125 years, and March set multiple heat records. Currently, areas like Punjab and Gujarat have Yellow and Orange alerts due to scorching temperatures.

Health experts are sounding the alarm about the impact of this intense heat. Dr. Manjusha Agarwal from Gleneagles Hospital notes a 2% increase in heat-related medical cases, particularly among children and older adults. These include issues like headaches, dizziness, and dehydration. The heatwave is not just uncomfortable; it poses a serious health risk, leading to more cases of flu and respiratory infections.

Unfortunately, this is not a new challenge for India. Last year was particularly severe, with the nation experiencing an unprecedented number of heatwave days. In fact, Rajasthan hit a staggering 50.5 degrees Celsius, marking one of the hottest days on record. Reports suggest that heatwaves claimed around 161 lives, though experts believe the actual number could be much higher.

So, how is India preparing to tackle these heatwaves? Experts say there has been progress. The IMD now provides timely forecasts that help local governments implement heat action plans. Many states have adopted measures such as creating shaded public spaces and distributing oral rehydration solutions. Hospitals are also actively sharing information on how to manage heat-related health issues.

However, while these steps are helpful, experts believe more needs to be done. Long-term strategies, such as improving public infrastructure and enhancing urban green spaces, are necessary. Rita Maker, an environmentalist, argues that solutions should aim to reduce temperatures locally rather than just responding to heatwaves as they occur.

Looking at how other countries manage extreme heat can offer valuable lessons. For example, Singapore has successfully implemented a three-step cooling strategy that includes vertical forests and innovative building designs to combat rising temperatures. Over the years, Singapore has managed to keep its heat increases to just 0.25 degrees Celsius per decade, demonstrating that proactive measures can make a significant difference.

As India pushes forward, learning from such examples could help not only in managing immediate effects but also in creating more sustainable cities that are better equipped to deal with climate change. The pressure is on, but with the right strategies, there is hope for the future.

To read more about India’s response to climate change, see this IMD report.

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