NHRC Issues Urgent Heatwave Alert: 21 States, Delhi Ordered to Protect Vulnerable Populations
By Doruvu Paul Jagan Babu: Assistant Chief Editor
New Delhi: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has directed 21 states and the National Capital Territory of Delhi to take proactive and coordinated measures to mitigate the impact of heatwaves, stressing the urgent need to safeguard vulnerable populations amid rising temperatures and increasing heat-related risks.
States asked to act in advance NHRC
The NHRC has issued instructions to Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal, along with Delhi, to implement timely relief measures and preparedness strategies.
Vulnerable groups at greater risk
The Commission noted that the growing frequency, duration and intensity of heatwaves disproportionately affect marginalised communities, economically weaker sections, outdoor workers and the homeless, who often lack adequate shelter and resources. It also highlighted that the elderly, children, infants and newborns are particularly susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
Rising heatwave impact and risks
Beyond health concerns, the NHRC pointed out that extreme heat can lead to loss of livelihoods and increase the risk of fire accidents. The Commission cited data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), which recorded 3,712 deaths due to heat or sunstroke across India between 2019 and 2023.
Call for coordinated and inclusive measures
In its communication to Chief Secretaries, the NHRC emphasised the need for integrated, inclusive and well-coordinated responses. States have been urged to ensure effective implementation of relief measures in line with existing Standard Operating Procedures and guidelines issued by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).
Reports sought from states and districts
The Commission has also called for consolidated action taken reports at the state and Union Territory levels, based on inputs from districts, to monitor preparedness and ensure accountability in tackling the heatwave crisis.
