Introduction
India has the majority of the world’s hottest cities. The reasons are geographical, climatic and man-made to some extent. One of the cities with high temperatures is Ahmedabad. However, unlike other cities, Ahmedabad is implementing a heat action plan to tackle the issue. So, let’s learn more about this plan and how it can protect city residents from heat waves.
What Is a Heat Action Plan?
It is a coordinated strategy aimed at reducing the risk of extreme heat in the city. The plan aims to protect people outside in Ahmedabad during the summer.
People affected by heat:
- Outdoor workers
- Commuters
- Elderly
- Children
As you know, extreme heat can lead to strokes and severe skin conditions. That is why the city is working to improve the system to reduce cases of serious temperature-related problems.
Ahmedabad’s 2010 Heatwave
During this year, the city experienced high mortality rates due to heat stroke. The reason was the development and growth of real estate, which meant that many people were outside during the hot days. Thus, the city developed a heat action plan in 2013 to reduce casualties from extreme heat.
How Ahmedabad’s Heat Action Plan Works
The plan has several different components that aim to safeguard public health during the summers. It consists of an early warning system and communicating with the public on official channels. Moreover, the procedure includes maintaining proper healthcare protocols for heat-wave-related cases.
- Early warning system
- Public communication
- Healthcare preparedness
- Cooling measures
- Training to first responders
People at Risk and How to Protect Them?
The population group most affected by heat waves is outdoor workers and labourers. Other than that, the traffic police and street vendors are also at risk from the heat. Therefore, they should work in the shade and listen to the weather channels.
- Cooling Centers,
- Water stations
- Altered work hours
In case of extreme heat, it is advisable to stay indoors and avoid travel during the day. For construction workers, having rest rooms and proper health kits at sites is recommended.
Related Plans: The Air Information and Response (AIR)
Considering the success of the heat action plan, Ahmedabad has also developed an air information and response system. It aims to provide authentic information on air quality and associated pollution risks. Moreover, it is a great way to establish the link between heat, pollution, and the city’s climate.
Challenges and Gaps in Heat Action Plan of Ahmedabad
While the heat plan has worked efficiently in the city, it remains limited in remote areas. Considering the scale and population of the state of Gujarat, the data on heat-related deaths is insufficient. Moreover, the primary victims of heat strokes are outside workers. Thus, it’s very difficult to reach that part of the community through online channels.
- Reaching rural populations.
- Inconsistency of awareness campaigns.
- Unchanged working hours during summer.
What Other Cities Can Learn
Heat action plans aim to raise awareness and establish standard procedures for treating heat-related conditions. The two steps go together and ensure safer working conditions and opportunities for outdoor activities for outdoor workers.
How other cities can benefit:
- Low cost
- High impact
- Prior research
Final Thoughts on Ahmedabad’s Heat Action Plan
The heat action plan is a great step towards safeguarding public health. It was developed after observing the rapid growth of heat stroke cases in 2010. Today, it might have saved thousands of lives. As a result, the plan has been recognised by various international bodies, such as the UNFCCC.
FAQs
Why is Ahmedabad so hot?
The city is near the equator and in a flat area. Both of these factors, along with climate change, can lead to high temperatures.
Are there different seasons in Ahmedabad?
The three main seasons of Ahmedabad are listed below.
- Monsoon
- Summer
- Winter
How long will it take for the heat action plan to work?
Ahmedabad’s plan to tackle heat waves is fully functional and is saving the lives of countless daily commuters.
Can a heat action plan be implemented in other cities?
The other hot cities in India can follow Ahmedabad’s lead to reduce heatstroke tragedies during extreme summers.