NHRC Urges 11 States To Act On Heatwave Risk, Protect Vulnerable Populations

In view of the heatwaves during summer particularly in the northern, central and western parts of the country, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has asked the 11 states to take immediate preemptive measures to protect the vulnerable people especially economically weaker sections, outdoor workers, the elderly, children, and the homeless, who are at risk due to the lack of adequate shelter and resources. Highlighting NCRB data about the reported deaths of 3,798 persons between 2018 to 2022 due to heat and sun strokes, the Commission has emphasized the urgent need for integrated and inclusive measures.

he Commission in a letter to the Chief Secretaries of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan, has called for provisioning of shelters, supply of relief materials, amendment of working hours and availability of standard procedures for treating heat-related illnesses.

In its communication to the States, the Commission has reiterated the NDMA guidelines to mitigate the impacts of heat waves, which include:

• Establishing and implementing standard procedures for treating heat-related illnesses and treatment protocols;

• Activate public spaces such as schools, anganwadi centres, and community halls with adequate ventilation, fans, drinking water, and basic medical supplies;

• Supply fans, cool roof materials, and ORS sachets to families in informal settlements and labour colonies; and

• Amend working hours, provide shaded rest zones, hydration support, and encourage the use of protective clothing.

These states have been asked to submit action taken reports to protect the lives of those vulnerable to heat waves as per existing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) or guidelines issued by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to States to mitigate the impact of heat waves.