A new study reveals that India’s most heat-prone cities focus on immediate responses while neglecting long-term strategies. This could lead to severe consequences in the future.
The research was published in Sustainable Futures Collaborative. It studied nine major cities: Bengaluru, Delhi, Faridabad, Gwalior, Kota, Ludhiana, Meerut, Mumbai, and Surat. These cities house over 11% of India’s urban population.
Findings show that while cities take urgent steps during heatwaves, they lack sustainable solutions. Without deeper reforms, India could face a growing heat-related crisis.
SHORT-TERM FIXES DOMINATE HEATWAVE RESPONSE
The study found that all nine cities have emergency measures. These include access to drinking water, adjusted work schedules, and expanded hospital capacity. While essential, these solutions offer only temporary relief.
Government orders primarily drive these actions. National and state agencies issue emergency directives before or during heatwaves. Nonetheless, Heat Action Plans (HAPs), designed for long-term adaptation, stay weakly enforced.
CRITICAL LONG-TERM SOLUTIONS ARE ABSENT
The research highlights major gaps in long-term heatwave preparedness. Many essential actions are missing, including:
- Cooling solutions for heat-exposed workers and vulnerable communities.
- Insurance to cover lost wages due to extreme heat conditions.
- Fire management services tailored for heat emergencies.
- Upgraded power grids to prevent blackouts during high-temperature periods.
- Advanced weather monitoring systems for better heat tracking.
- Comprehensive urban heat mapping to identify high-risk zones.
Some cities have introduced rooftop solar panels and expanded green spaces. Yet, these initiatives often fail to reach the most vulnerable populations.
HEALTH SECTOR LEADS IN LONG-TERM HEATWAVE PLANNING
The study found that most long-term measures focus on healthcare preparedness. Efforts include specialized training for health workers and monitoring systems for heat-related deaths.
While these measures are crucial, experts warn they do not address the root causes of extreme heat. Urban planning and infrastructure upgrades are also necessary to mitigate risks.
FUNDING AND INSTITUTIONAL CHALLENGES HINDER PROGRESS
Two-thirds of officials reported having adequate funds for heat responses. However, most of this funding supports short-term solutions, which are cheaper and easier to implement.
Transitioning to long-term climate resilience requires sustained financial investment. Cities also struggle with institutional roadblocks, including weak coordination, staff shortages, and lack of technical expertise.
KEY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR STRENGTHENING HEAT RESILIENCE
To tackle these challenges, the study suggests the following strategies:
1. Strengthen Heat Action Plans (HAPs)
- Local governments must enforce long-term strategies.
- Urban heat mapping and vulnerability assessments should be mandatory.
- National and state disaster funds should support heat adaptation projects.
2. Build Capacity for Climate Resilience
- Launch a multi-year training program for officials in India’s most heat-affected cities.
- Establish permanent, specialized disaster management roles at the district level.
3. Use Technology for Targeted Climate Action
- Implement a government-backed cooling program for high-risk communities.
- Provide subsidies for energy-efficient air conditioners in extreme heat zones.
- Improve access to climate projection data for better decision-making.
INDIA MUST PRIORITIZE LONG-TERM HEATWAVE SOLUTIONS
As heatwaves grow more frequent and intense, short-term solutions will not be enough. Without proactive planning, cities risk devastating human and economic losses.
Experts urge immediate institutional reforms, stronger policies, and better coordination. Only a well-funded, long-term approach can protect Indian cities from the intensifying heat crisis.