New Delhi, India: As temperatures soar to around 50° Celsius, India has reported 110 heat stroke-related deaths and 40,272 suspected cases as of June 18, according to data from the health ministry. The majority of cases and deaths have been reported in rural areas, where strenuous outdoor work in agriculture exacerbates the impact of the heat. Rural regions often struggle with inadequate health infrastructure compared to urban areas.
This year’s heatwaves have been particularly severe, prompting red alerts in various parts of the country since mid-May. The intensity, frequency, and duration of these heatwaves have overwhelmed healthcare facilities, leading to a rise in heat-related illnesses. Experts note the challenges faced by densely populated areas in coping with the high temperatures.
June marked a record high temperature for the month at 47°C, the hottest in a decade. Compared to previous years, the temperatures have been exceptionally high. States like Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Bihar have reported significant numbers of heat stroke cases.
Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest number of deaths at 36, followed by Bihar, Rajasthan, Odisha, Telangana, and Madhya Pradesh. The health minister, J.P. Nadda, recently reviewed the heatwave preparedness in central government hospitals, emphasizing the importance of providing efficient healthcare to those affected. Special heatwave units are being established in central government hospitals, and heat wave management advisories have been issued to states and union territories.
Healthcare providers have reported a 50% increase in patients with gastrointestinal disorders and respiratory illnesses, with cases of heat stroke and heat cramps on the rise. In the national capital, Delhi, major central government hospitals have recorded multiple deaths due to heat stroke. Climate experts highlight the vulnerability of rural populations to heat-related health issues, emphasizing the need for government intervention, community resilience, and sustainable infrastructure development.
Nagakarthik M.P., co-founder of Sauramandala Foundation and part of ClimateRISE Alliance, points out the challenges faced by rural regions heavily reliant on agriculture, emphasizing the impact of extreme heat on crop yields and water availability. The lack of access to heat-resistant housing and quality healthcare further exacerbates the situation for rural communities. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach to ensure the well-being of vulnerable populations.