Model Answer

Introduction: Heatwaves, defined by the India Meteorological Department as prolonged periods of abnormally high temperatures, are increasingly frequent in India due to climate variability and anthropogenic factors. They are now recognized as a “silent disaster” due to their widespread yet often underreported impacts.

Body:

1. Causes of Heatwaves:

Climate Change: Rising global temperatures increasing frequency and intensity. Anticyclonic Conditions: Subsiding air traps heat near the surface. Urban Heat Island Effect: Concrete infrastructure amplifies heat retention. Oceanic Influences: Phenomena like El Niño Modoki alter atmospheric circulation.

2. Impacts:

Health: Heatstroke, dehydration, and fatalities among vulnerable populations. Agriculture: Reduced productivity and crop stress. Economy: Decline in labour productivity; heatwaves may cost ~2% of GDP. Infrastructure: Increased power demand leading to grid stress and outages.

3. Mitigation Measures:

Heat Action Plans (HAPs): Early warnings, cooling centres, awareness drives. Institutional Efforts: Forecasting and alerts by Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority and IMD. Adaptive Practices: Cool roofs, hydration campaigns, urban planning reforms.

4. Way Forward:

Promote urban greening and water bodies. Invest in climate-resilient infrastructure under initiatives like National Infrastructure Pipeline. Strengthen data-driven planning and local-level preparedness.

Conclusion: With rising temperatures, heatwaves pose a systemic risk to India’s health and economy. A combination of proactive governance, community awareness, and climate-resilient development is essential to mitigate this growing threat.