The Tamil Nadu government has officially recognized heatwaves as a state disaster, placing them alongside 13 other calamities such as floods and electrocution. This move entitles families of heatwave victims, including relief workers, to ₹4 lakh compensation. This announcement underscores the state’s commitment to reducing heatwave casualties, especially as heatwaves remain unclassified as disasters at the national level. Anup Kumar Srivastava, a former senior consultant at the National Disaster Management Authority, emphasizes the importance of prevention, preparedness, and effective disaster management. Initiatives must extend beyond basic measures like distributing ORS and adjusting working hours, to include compensation for agricultural and livestock losses.
Mihir R. Bhatt from the All India Disaster Mitigation Institute highlights the notification’s significance in ensuring legal and financial support for citizens, advocating for participatory planning and district-level heat action plans. Identifying heatwave deaths remains a challenge due to varying definitions and recording practices, as noted by medical professionals. G. Sundarrajan of the Tamil Nadu Governing Council on Climate Change urges for the recognition of thermal discomfort as a disease to simplify certification of heat-induced deaths. He also advises incorporating the heat index, considering both temperature and humidity, in assessments of heatwave conditions. This comprehensive approach is essential for mitigating risks and ensuring effective disaster response and preparedness.
Original Story https://www.thehindu.com/news/states/heatwave-preparedness-should-be-a-365-day-effort/article68881689.ece
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