Context: In Perspective today, we will be talking about the heat wave conditions in India… We’ve all been feeling the intense heat for the past few weeks due to rising temperatures in large parts of the country. In fact in several cities, maximum temperatures neared 50 degrees Celsius. 

• As per the IMD, it was the hottest April in terms of day temperatures in weather data going back to 1901 in northwest and central India. 
• Across India, this was the fourth-hottest April on record. The scorching heat made it extremely difficult for people to work outside – in fact for all those stepping out of their houses in temperatures hovering around 40-45 degrees has been extremely difficult.  
• To make matters worse, power cuts have been reported from several states. Amid the soaring mercury levels, the Centre urged states and UTs to review their health facility preparedness. 
• In a letter last week, Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan urged states/UTs to ensure the availability of adequate quantities of essential medicines, sufficient drinking water, and continued functioning of cooling appliances in critical areas.

Report error