Chennai, 24 August (H.S.) : Tamil Nadu has witnessed a significant rise in heatwave days, with the state recording 13 heatwave days in 2024, the highest in at least the last 10 years. According to government data, the state's heatwave situation is expected to worsen in the coming years, with projections indicating a two-fold rise in heatwave days by 2030.

The increasing heatwave trend is attributed to climate change, with experts warning that more than 75% of the districts in 10 states, including Tamil Nadu, will experience heat stress induced by erratic and incessant rainfall by 2030. Chennai, in particular, may face a two-fold rise in heatwave days, with extended heat conditions triggering more frequent and erratic rainfall.

The heatwave situation in Tamil Nadu is a growing concern, with the state government taking measures to mitigate its impact. The government has declared heatwaves as a state-specific disaster, allowing it to provide relief to affected populations under the State Disaster Response Fund. An ex gratia payment of Rs 4 lakh will be provided to families of individuals who die due to heat-related causes.

A study by the Centre for Climate Change and Disaster Management at Anna University indicates that the number of heatwave days in Chennai and surrounding areas is projected to increase significantly by 2050. Some of the projected increases.

According to Tamilnadu Metrology Department 81 heatwave days, up from 42; 80 heatwave days in Chennai, up from 43 for Auvadi;78 heatwave days, up from 42 for Tambaram and 74 heatwave days, up from 39 per Kanchipuram.

The state government is working to enhance green cover in cities to mitigate the impact of heatwaves. An Urban Greening Policy is being drafted to increase green cover in cities, and a dedicated wing will be set up in cities and corporations to implement the policy.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary