The Supreme Court of India has taken suo motu cognisance of the rising number of heatwave-related deaths across the country and has directed the Central government and state authorities to explain what preventive steps are being taken. This comes in the backdrop of severe heat conditions affecting large parts of northern and central India, leading to multiple deaths and health emergencies.
During the hearing, the bench expressed concern over the lack of a nationwide policy to combat the growing threat of heatwaves, which are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change. The court noted that thousands of people, particularly daily wage workers, elderly individuals, and those with pre-existing medical conditions, are at risk.
The Supreme Court directed the Centre and all state governments to file comprehensive affidavits within two weeks, outlining their current heatwave response plans, including public health measures, awareness campaigns, early warning systems, access to drinking water, and shelter facilities.
The court also raised questions about the implementation of the National Action Plan on Climate Change and state-level heat action plans. The bench asked whether these policies are being updated regularly and whether they are effectively implemented at the district and municipal levels.
The Centre, represented by the Solicitor General, assured the court that necessary advisories had been issued to state governments and that health departments were working in coordination with disaster management teams. However, the court stressed that ground-level execution and real-time monitoring were essential to save lives.
Public interest litigants and environmental experts have long argued for a more proactive approach to climate-induced emergencies. According to several reports, many areas still lack proper heat shelters, emergency medical support, and clean drinking water access, which are vital during heatwaves.
The court also mentioned the importance of protecting school children and outdoor workers. It suggested that guidelines be issued regarding the adjustment of school hours, work timings, and safety protocols for those working in extreme weather conditions.
The increasing frequency of extreme weather patterns, including prolonged heat spells, is now being recognised as a serious public health issue. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued multiple red alerts in several regions this year, indicating dangerous temperature levels. Despite such warnings, response mechanisms in many states remain inadequate.
Experts argue that heatwaves must be treated with the same urgency as natural disasters like floods or cyclones. They recommend measures such as early warning systems via mobile alerts, water booths in urban and rural areas, medical emergency response units, and targeted outreach to vulnerable populations.
In conclusion, the Supreme Court's intervention highlights the urgent need for a coordinated, well-funded, and scientifically informed strategy to prevent heatwave-related deaths. As climate change continues to impact India more severely, legal oversight may push governments to prioritise long-term and life-saving climate resilience measures.
