New Delhi, June 4: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called for urgent and coordinated measures to reduce the impact of intensifying heat waves in urban areas across India.
The NHRC Chairperson emphasized that rising temperatures are no longer only an environmental concern but also a serious public health and human rights issue, particularly affecting vulnerable groups such as the elderly, outdoor workers, children, and low-income communities living in dense urban settlements.
The Commission urged authorities to strengthen heat action plans in cities, improve access to drinking water, expand shaded public spaces, and ensure adequate cooling facilities in hospitals, schools, and public transport hubs.
It also highlighted the need for better urban planning, including green cover expansion, heat-resilient infrastructure, and early warning systems to reduce heat-related health risks.
Officials noted that coordinated efforts between central, state, and local bodies are essential to minimize casualties and improve preparedness as extreme heat events become more frequent due to climate change.
The NHRC reiterated that protecting citizens from extreme weather conditions is an integral part of safeguarding the right to life and health.