Heat Waves in India – 2024: A Growing Crisis During Elections and Events!

In India, heat waves are becoming increasingly dangerous, causing numerous deaths and affecting people in various regions. As extreme temperatures coincide with major events, such as elections, the need for effective management is critical.

Rising Deaths

Deaths in Bihar

• May 2023: At least 14 people died due to extreme hot in Bihar by the end of May. Among them, 10 were polling personnel working during the elections.
• Aurangabad District: Temperatures soared to 48°C (118°F) in late May, severely affecting the population of about 3 million people.

Deaths in Odisha

• June 2023: Nearly 100 people died within 72 hours in Odisha, with hot conditions suspected to be the cause.

Hospitals Responding to Emergencies

Treatment in Delhi

• Ice-Filled Tubs: Patients suffering from heatstroke were immersed in ice-filled submersion tubs to quickly lower their body temperatures.
• Ice-Making Facilities: Wards equipped with ice-making refrigerators, ice boxes, and ventilators were used to treat critical patients. These patients were placed on slabs of ice and injected with cold fluids to stabilize their conditions.

Medical Challenges

• Dr. Ravi Bhushan Srivastava: Chief Medical Officer at a government hospital in Bihar, observed an unprecedented number of severe cases. On a particularly severe day, 60 patients were admitted for heatstroke, with 35 to 40 in critical condition. Dr. Srivastava noted, “They were either unconscious, in altered consciousness, with very hot bodies and having trouble breathing.”

Strategies

Challenges at Election Rallies

• Large Crowds: Election rallies often attract large crowds, making them vulnerable to illnesses. Proper management strategies are essential to protect attendees.

Adaptation Strategies

Real-Time Temperature Monitoring: Aditya Valiathan Pillai, an adaptation specialist, suggests displaying real-time local temperatures with color-coded risk levels at events. This can help attendees understand the current heat risks.

Cooling Stations: Setting up water stations, shaded areas, and cooling centers can provide immediate relief to people attending events in extreme heat.

Early Warnings: Public agencies should issue early warnings about impending heat waves. According to Mr. Pillai, accurate heat wave forecasts can be made up to five days in advance, allowing for proactive measures to be taken.

Conclusion

Hot waves pose a significant threat to public health, especially during large gatherings like elections and sporting events. Implementing preventive measures, such as real-time temperature monitoring, cooling stations, and early warnings, can help mitigate the risks. As global temperatures continue to rise, adapting to extreme heat is essential to safeguard lives.

References

1. Reuters Report on Heat-Related Deaths in India
2. Insights from Dr. Ravi Bhushan Srivastava and Aditya Valiathan Pillai on managing stress.

This detailed summary provides an overview of the recent deaths in India and suggests strategies to manage during large events.