By Mridusmita Borah, Project Officer (DRR), ASDMA, India

The Northeast region of India, known for its lush landscapes and vibrant cultures, is facing a growing threat: heatwaves. As a policymaker dedicated to this region, I see the alarm bells ringing. While the Northeast has always experienced variations in climate, the intensity and frequency of extreme heat events are unprecedented, demanding our urgent attention.

Several factors compound our region’s vulnerability. Our economy is intricately linked to agriculture, with millions depending on rain-fed agriculture for their livelihoods. The delicate ecosystems of the Himalayas, upon which our region relies, are already stressed by climate change. Furthermore, rapid, unplanned urbanisation exacerbates the urban heat island effect, putting further strain on our cities and towns.

Heatwaves significantly threaten various sectors of the Northeast’s economy. Agriculture, the backbone of our region, suffers from reduced crop yields, livestock stress, and increased irrigation demands. The tourism sector, vital for our economy, faces disruptions due to extreme heat affecting visitor comfort and natural attractions. Additionally, heatwaves strain energy grids due to increased cooling demands, potentially leading to power outages and disrupting industrial productivity.

Assam’s tea production, a cornerstone of our economy, is facing unprecedented challenges due to heatwaves’ increasing frequency and intensity. Scorching temperatures and erratic rainfall patterns disrupt the delicate growing cycle of tea, leading to plummeting yields and impacting the livelihoods of millions. Tea garden workers, a majority of whom are women, are particularly vulnerable. Working long hours under the sun exposes them to heatstroke, dehydration, and other heat-related illnesses. Records dating back to 2013 reveal the severe impact of heatwaves on tea workers’ health, with reports of widespread illness and even fatalities.

While national policies provide a foundation, we need a targeted approach for the Northeast. Here is what we must prioritise:

• Region-Specific Heat Action Plans: We need localised heat action plans tailored to the unique geographical and socio-economic contexts of each Northeastern state. These plans should include early warning systems, public awareness campaigns, and measures to protect vulnerable populations like farmers and outdoor workers.

• Investing in Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Our infrastructure needs to withstand the impacts of extreme heat. This includes developing heat-resistant infrastructure, improving water management systems to combat floods and droughts, and strengthening healthcare systems to cope with heat-related illnesses.
• Empowering Communities with Knowledge and Resources: Local communities are on the frontlines of climate change. We must empower them with the knowledge, skills, and resources to adapt. This includes promoting traditional knowledge of heat adaptation, supporting climate-resilient agriculture practices, and building capacity for disaster preparedness.

Crucially, our heat action plans must encompass immediate measures to provide relief during heatwaves. This includes establishing cooling centres in easily accessible locations, ensuring uninterrupted water supply, and coordinating with healthcare providers to prepare for and respond to heat-related emergencies. Public awareness campaigns should educate citizens on recognising heat stress symptoms, staying hydrated, and taking necessary precautions.

The fight against heatwaves in Northeast India is about adapting to a changing climate and safeguarding our future. By enacting proactive, region-specific policies, investing in resilient infrastructure, and empowering our communities, we can mitigate the worst impacts of extreme heat and build a more sustainable and equitable future for all who call the Northeast home.

Photo caption: (1) “The afternoons are always quiet in the summer. People stay inside, so nobody is buying my crafts. Fewer customers mean less income.” – A home-based artisan in Ahmedabad. Photo: AIDMI. (2) “This heat is merciless. The mangoes and bananas ripen too fast, and then they rot. I am throwing away more fruit than I am selling these days. It is a terrible loss.” – A woman selling fruit on the streets of Kerala. Photo: AIDMI.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this piece are those of the author/s and do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of AIDMI.