Roadmap for Answer Writing

To effectively address the question regarding the increase in heat wave occurrences in India, follow this structured approach:

1. Introduction

   • Briefly define what constitutes a heat wave in India, referencing the criteria set by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
   • Mention the significance of the issue, highlighting the recent trends in heat wave occurrences.

2. Reasons Behind Increased Heat Waves

   • Climate Change: Discuss how global warming contributes to rising temperatures and extreme weather events, including heat waves. Cite studies indicate that climate change has made heat waves in India significantly more probable.
   • Urbanization: Explain the urban heat island effect, where urban areas experience higher temperatures due to concrete and asphalt absorbing heat.
   • Reduced Natural Vegetation: Describe how the loss of vegetation affects local climates, as plants help cool the air through transpiration.
   • Water Scarcity: Discuss how encroachments on water bodies reduce moisture in the air, contributing to higher temperatures.

3. Mitigation Measures

   • Public Awareness: Emphasize the importance of educating the public about the impacts of heat waves and strategies for coping.
   • Integration of Policy Initiatives: Mention the role of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in developing heat action plans in collaboration with state governments.
   • Greening of Cities: Suggest urban planning strategies that include increasing green spaces and restoring wetlands to help lower temperatures.
   • Promoting Green Infrastructure: Advocate for the use of sustainable building materials and practices that reduce heat absorption and improve energy efficiency.

4. Conclusion

   • Summarize the urgency of addressing heat wave occurrences and the potential benefits of implementing the proposed mitigation measures.

Relevant Facts for the Answer

• According to the IMD, a heat wave is defined as a condition where the maximum temperature reaches at least 40°C in plains and 30°C in hilly regions.
• Between 1990 and 2019, summer temperatures in North India rose by 0.5-0.9°C, with projections indicating a potential rise of 2-3.5°C in 100 districts over the next 30 years.
• Climate change has made heat waves in India 30 times more probable.
• Urban areas can be several degrees hotter than surrounding rural areas due to the urban heat island effect.
• The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) is working with 23 states to implement heat action plans to mitigate the effects of rising temperatures.