Heat Stress Outpaces India's Heat Waves as a Silent Killer

Shares of concern have been rising among health experts and government officials in India as the country grapples with a growing threat: heat stress, which is proving to be more perilous than the frequent heat waves that have become a hallmark of the nation's summers. According to recent studies, heat stress is claiming more lives and causing irreversible damage to the health of millions of people, particularly those engaged in outdoor occupations such as farm workers, waste collectors, and garment stitchers. In Ahmedabad, a 45-year-old vegetable seller, Kantaben Kishen Parmar, has been a victim of heat stress. Her daily routine, which involves selling peppers and tomatoes from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., has taken a toll on her health. Three years ago, she collapsed during an especially scorching April day and was rushed to a hospital, where she was treated for severe dehydration. Ms. Parmar, who is diabetic, has suffered from urinary tract infections and other complications due to heat stress. "I feel like I'm getting weaker every summer," she said in an interview. "I'm scared of what might happen if I don't get better." Experts attribute the rising cases of heat stress to the prolonged and intense heat waves that have become a norm in India. "The summers are getting longer and hotter, and people are not adapting quickly enough," said Dr. Ravi Kumar, a leading expert on heat stress. "We're seeing a significant increase in heat-related illnesses, particularly among outdoor workers who are exposed to the elements for long periods." Dr. Kumar added that heat stress can cause a range of symptoms, including headaches, nausea, and fatigue, and can even lead to organ failure and death if left untreated. The Indian government has taken steps to mitigate the effects of heat stress, including launching awareness campaigns and providing relief measures such as coolers and fans to outdoor workers. However, many experts believe that more needs to be done to address the root causes of heat stress. "We need to change our behavior and adapt to the changing climate," said Dr. Kumar. "This includes taking regular breaks, staying hydrated, and wearing protective clothing." In rural Bihar, a team of scientists from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) is working on developing a heat stress index that can predict the risk of heat-related illnesses. The index, which takes into account factors such as temperature, humidity, and wind speed, can help authorities take proactive measures to prevent heat stress. "We're working on developing a system that can provide real-time alerts and warnings to people who are at risk of heat stress," said Dr. Sunita Singh, a researcher at IIT. As the summer months approach, health experts and government officials are bracing themselves for another wave of heat stress cases. While some progress has been made in addressing the issue, much work remains to be done to protect the health and well-being of millions of people who are vulnerable to heat stress.