A new study has revealed that at least 35,000 people in India lost their lives due to exposure to extreme heat and cold between 2001 and 2019. The findings, published in the journal Temperature, highlight an alarming trend in climate-related mortality.
Peak Year: 2015 Witnessed Over 3,000 Deaths
In 2015 alone, heatstroke claimed 1,907 lives, while 1,147 deaths occurred due to cold exposure. Researchers used data from the India Meteorological Department, the National Crime Records Bureau, and other national datasets to arrive at these estimates.
Heat-Related Deaths on the Rise
The study observed a clear upward trend in deaths due to heatstroke, indicating a growing health crisis fueled by global warming. Lead author Dr. Pradeep Guin, from O.P. Jindal Global University, emphasized that these deaths are preventable with timely public health interventions.
“With an intense heatwave forecast this summer and extreme weather events becoming more frequent, there is no time to lose in raising awareness and implementing mitigation strategies,” said Dr. Guin.
Men at Higher Risk, Especially of Working Age
According to the study, men of working age face a disproportionately higher risk. Between 2001 and 2019, heat-related deaths were three to five times higher among men, while cold-related deaths were four to seven times higher, compared to women.
State-wise Trends: Where Deaths Hit Hardest
As reported by hindustantimes, the data identified Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab as states with the highest number of heatstroke deaths. On the other hand, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Bihar recorded the most fatalities due to cold exposure.
Urgent Call for Action Plans
Co-author Dr. Nandita Bhan, from the School of Public Health and Human Development at O.P. Jindal Global University, urged state governments to scale up climate resilience efforts.
“Several states are developing heat action plans using innovative built environment strategies. However, we must also focus on creating and expanding cold action plans for at-risk regions,” Dr. Bhan stated.
Global Context: Temperature Fluctuations Getting Worse
Adding to the concern, a recent study published in Nature Communications reported a sharp increase in ‘rapid flips’—abrupt changes between extreme hot and cold temperatures—in over 60% of the world’s regions over the past 60 years.
These sudden shifts leave limited time for adaptation, which could intensify the negative impact on public health, agriculture, infrastructure, and ecosystems.
Conclusion: Prevention is Possible, But Action is Needed Now
The authors conclude that extreme temperatures related deaths, though preventable, will continue to rise unless India prioritizes public health planning for both heatwaves and cold spells. Identifying high-risk areas and implementing localized action plans are crucial to protect vulnerable populations and reduce future loss of life.