India is going through a really tough summer. Since March, over 60 people have died from extreme heat, and around 16,344 people are suspected to have heatstroke.
But experts think the real numbers could be even higher.
It's not just India; heatwaves are hitting other places hard too. Last year, Europe, known for its pleasant weather, saw a staggering 70,000 deaths due to heat. This should alarm everyone about what might come in the future. Also, it's sad to note that last year, the first cheetah cubs born in India in 7 decades died because of the heatwave.
Why is all this happening? Well, it's a mix of nature and what we humans are doing. Stuff like high pressure in the air keeping hot air close to the ground and El Niño events making oceans warmer are causing these heatwaves in India.
What can we do? Project Jaagrukta has some ideas. We need immediate action, like Heat Action Plans. These plans warn us early, spread awareness, and set up cool places for those at risk, like outdoor workers and the elderly.
But we also need long-term solutions, like making buildings more energy-efficient. That way, we won't rely so much on air conditioning, saving both energy and lives.
Written By Udhav Kumar
