The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has recently predicted a hotter-than-normal summer for India in 2025.
This projection is not merely a seasonal update but a clarion call for urgent, comprehensive action. As the country braces for a potential surge in temperature and the associated health and environmental consequences, the focus must shift from reactive responses to proactive planning.
According to the IMD forecast, most parts of the country are likely to experience above-normal maximum temperatures during the summer months, particularly in central and northern states.
The probability of heatwaves — especially prolonged and severe ones — is significantly high. This warning cannot be taken lightly, given India’s growing vulnerability to extreme weather events fuelled by climate change. In recent years, heatwaves have become more frequent and intense, with devastating impacts on public health, water resources, agriculture, and energy demands.
For millions, especially in rural and low-income urban communities, extreme heat is not just an inconvenience — it’s a matter of survival. People working outdoors, such as construction workers, farmers, and street vendors, are particularly at risk. Last year, several states reported casualties due to heat stress, and without adequate mitigation strategies, 2025 could witness a similar — if not worse — crisis.
Government agencies must prioritize early warning systems, public awareness campaigns, and emergency preparedness. The Heat Action Plans (HAPs) implemented in cities like Ahmedabad have shown promising results in reducing heat-related mortality. These models must be expanded and adapted to other regions. Schools, offices, and industrial units must revise working hours and ensure safe environments during peak heat periods.
Moreover, this projection adds urgency to India’s climate resilience strategies. Urban areas, increasingly turning into ‘heat islands’ due to concrete structures and shrinking green cover, need sustainable planning interventions — more trees, reflective rooftops, green buildings, and shaded public spaces. Access to clean drinking water, uninterrupted electricity for cooling systems, and reliable healthcare support must be ensured across all states.
At the same time, this forecast offers an opportunity to accelerate India’s transition to renewable energy. The increased demand for cooling systems during summer will inevitably strain electricity grids. Investing in solar-powered cooling solutions and decentralized energy systems can help bridge this gap sustainably.
The agricultural sector also needs immediate attention. Heatwaves severely impact crop yields and livestock, threatening food security and farmers’ livelihoods. Agricultural advisories, promoting heat-resilient crop varieties, and expanding irrigation access should be key components of the response plan.
The IMD’s alert should serve as a wake-up call, not just for policymakers but for every citizen. Community-level awareness and resilience building, especially in climate-vulnerable regions, is essential. It is time to treat extreme heat as a natural disaster — not a seasonal inconvenience — and prepare accordingly. |
