The current situation in India is clear to everyone. It’s not an exaggeration to say that India is burning, and it's not just the sweltering heat causing it. With the increasing frequency and intensity of heat waves, temperatures in many parts of the country are soaring above 50 degrees Celsius and urbanization plays a significant role in this crisis. Cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai are scorching, and rampant deforestation and land degradation in these urban areas contribute heavily to the problem. Additionally, climate change is a major factor. Industries and vehicles continuously emit greenhouse gases, resulting in more frequent and severe heat waves, particularly affecting those who work under the blazing sun.
Scientists have compared the temperatures from 1979-2001 with those from 2001-2023. The year 2024 has seen significantly higher temperatures than either of these periods, with the highest heatwave ever recorded in the country. They have found that the current heatwave in India is surpassing human tolerance levels. The primary cause of this extreme heat is the excessive use of fossil fuels. Burning fossil fuels emits substantial quantities of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat, leading to global warming. Research has revealed that temperatures in India have reached nearly 50 degrees Celsius, with no technical solution in sight to reduce it. The main culprit is carbon dioxide emissions, which must be reduced through concerted efforts.
Amid this scorching heat, many places in India are facing a severe water shortage and every day brings news of fires breaking out somewhere. Birds are also succumbing to the intense heat. Heatwaves render the elderly, children, and outdoor workers vulnerable to heat-related illnesses like dehydration. During these periods, people are more susceptible to conditions such as fainting, skin issues, breathlessness, body aches, eye infections, back pain, and injuries. Heatwaves can exacerbate conditions such as exhaustion, heat stroke, respiratory issues, skin ailments, and even mental health disorders.
The primary cause of this extreme heat is the rapid rise in global temperatures. If this trend continues unabated, temperatures could potentially double by the year 2100. To address this issue in the future, the most straightforward approach is to plant more trees, lessen our carbon footprint, and prioritize the well-being of ourselves and our families during severe heat waves.
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