Daily News Analysis ‘NHRC Urges States to Take Urgent Heatwave Measures’ : 2 May

Key Concerns Raised:

• 3,798 deaths due to heat and sun strokes recorded between 2018 and 2022 (NCRB data)
• Poor and vulnerable groups — especially outdoor workers, the elderly, children, and homeless people — face increased health risks due to a lack of shelter and resources

NHRC Recommendations to States:

• Shelter & Relief: Provide temporary cool shelters, relief materials, and basic medical support.
  • Equip schools, anganwadi centres, and community halls with fans, drinking water, ORS, and ventilation.
• Working Conditions: Amend working hours for labourers. Set up shaded rest zones and ensure hydration support. Promote the use of protective clothing.
• Medical Preparedness: Follow the NDMA guidelines on heatwave response. Establish treatment protocols for heat-related illnesses.
• Community Support: Distribute cool roof materials, fans, and ORS to informal settlements and labour colonies.
• Monitoring: States asked to submit action-taken reports to NHRC.

• The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued an advisory to 11 States urging immediate protective action for vulnerable populations against heat waves.