NHRC Urges 11 States to Implement Heatwave Prevention Strategies Amid Rising Temperatures

Urgent Call for Action Against Heat-Related Deaths

In response to the escalating heatwaves across India, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called upon 11 states, including Odisha, to take swift action to prevent fatalities linked to extreme heat.

The NHRC emphasized the necessity of protecting vulnerable populations, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, outdoor laborers, the elderly, children, and the homeless, who are particularly susceptible due to inadequate shelter and resources.

In a communication directed to the Chief Secretaries of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan, the NHRC urged the provision of shelters and essential relief supplies for those at risk.

Data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) indicates that between 2018 and 2022, there were 3,798 reported deaths attributed to heat and sun strokes.

The Commission highlighted the critical need for comprehensive and inclusive strategies, which include adjusting working hours and establishing standardized procedures for managing heat-related health issues.

To alleviate the effects of heatwaves, guidelines from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) recommend utilizing public facilities such as schools, anganwadi centers, and community halls, ensuring they are well-ventilated and equipped with fans, drinking water, and basic medical supplies.

Additionally, it suggests distributing fans, cool roofing materials, and oral rehydration solution (ORS) sachets to families living in informal settlements and labor colonies, as well as creating shaded rest areas and promoting hydration and protective clothing.

The NHRC has requested that states provide reports on the actions taken to safeguard those vulnerable to heatwaves.

Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced that various regions in India are expected to experience above-average temperatures and an increase in heatwave days throughout May.

According to IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, heatwave conditions may extend for up to four days in states including Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Gangetic West Bengal.

In light of these developments, the Ministry of Health has issued a public advisory urging individuals to take precautions against the heat.

On social media platform X, the Ministry recommended avoiding outdoor activities between noon and 3 PM and refraining from strenuous tasks during the afternoon.

#BeatTheHeat | Protect yourself from the heat!
Follow these simple tips to stay safe during this summer season. pic.twitter.com/Odcm9QUKo2

— Ministry of Health (@MoHFW_INDIA) April 30, 2025

The Ministry also advised ensuring proper ventilation in homes, avoiding consumption of stale food, alcohol, tea, or coffee, and never leaving pets or children unattended in parked vehicles.