Climate change and rapid urbanization have intensified the impact and frequency of heat waves in India. Discuss. How can Heat Action Plans (HAPs) improve heatwave management in India?

Intensification by Climate change & Rapid urbanization

(1) encroachment upon natural streams & lakes. Ex: Bangalore (2) Deforestation et al. Ex: Hyderabad controversy (3) overly concretized landscape (4) Glass pane buildings and heat trapping effect. (5) top soil removal and loss of soil < moisture, organic carbon (6) loss of traditional water storage infra Ex: Baoli's & Bunds.

Heat Action Plans: Improving (HAPs) management

(Recently UP govt was lauded for comprehensive HAP)

(1) Clearly defined targets (Ex: mitigation & adaptation focus areas)

(2) Focus upon vulnerable sections Ex: street vendors

(3) coordination b/w states Central & local bodies

(4) Focus upon adequate short term Relief measures. Ex: water points.

(5) Preparedness Esp. Health Aspects (Hospital beds & meds)

(6) Awareness generation (To reduce outdoor activity @ Peak Afternoons)

(7) local community & civil society engagement Ex: GOONJ NGO & Akshay Patra.

Way forward :

(1) sustainable urbanization. Ex: sponge Cities (China)

(2) mandatory Rainwater harvest and percolation Ex: Tamil Nadu.

(3) Retrofitting and Building design (Building code by BIS)

(4) Innovative models