CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Description
The Telangana government recently declared heatwaves and sunstroke as state-specific disasters, aiming to improve climate resilience and safeguard vulnerable populations. This move enables the state to provide financial assistance to families affected by heat-related incidents. Telangana has become one of the first Indian states to classify heatwaves as disasters independently, even though the Union government has not yet included such events in the national disaster list.
Defining Heatwaves
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), heatwaves occur when maximum temperatures reach 40°C or are 5-6°C higher than the normal temperature for that area. A severe heatwave is defined by a temperature anomaly of 7°C or more. Areas experiencing temperatures above 45°C are also considered to be under a heatwave. Climate change has contributed to the increased frequency and intensity of these events.
Health And Economic Impact
Heatwaves predominantly affect public health, often leading to unreported deaths and illnesses, especially among vulnerable groups like the elderly, outdoor workers, children, and women. Unlike visible disasters like floods, the effects of heatwaves are not always immediately apparent. Telangana reported 98 heatwave-related deaths in 2020 and 62 in 2022. The lack of clear medical guidelines for identifying heat-related deaths results in systemic underreporting.
Government Actions And Measures
In response to this crisis, the Telangana government has developed district-specific heatwave action plans. These plans include setting up oral rehydration solution (ORS) stations and drinking water kiosks at key locations to support affected populations. Public advisories are also regularly issued to raise awareness about precautions during extreme heat. However, without formal disaster designation, the state has faced challenges in offering adequate support.
Financial Support And Relief
With the recent declaration, the Telangana government can now offer Rupees 4 lakh in ex-gratia relief to the families of heatwave victims. Previously, the Apadbandhu Scheme only provided Rupees 50,000 in assistance. This increased support will be drawn from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF), allowing for more substantial responses to heatwave incidents.
National Exclusion And Challenges
The Union government does not recognize heatwaves as disasters under the Disaster Management Act, 2005. This exclusion limits states from accessing the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) for heatwave-related relief. States are forced to rely on their own resources for emergency healthcare services and public awareness initiatives. Though the Finance Commission permits states to use a portion of the SDRF for local disasters, this allocation is discretionary and lacks a unified national policy.
Need For National Recognition
As the frequency of heatwaves continues to rise, there is growing concern over the necessity of recognizing heatwaves as a formal disaster under the Disaster Management Act. With the IMD predicting an increase in the number of heatwave days across India in 2025, Telangana’s proactive measures underscore the urgent need for national recognition. Such a move would help ensure effective disaster management and provide timely support to those impacted by these extreme weather events.
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