NEW DELHI, India: India is currently experiencing its longest-ever heatwave, lasting for about 24 days in various parts of the country, according to Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, the head of India’s Meteorological Department (IMD).
Temperatures soaring over 45 degrees Celsius have gripped northern India since mid-May, prompting concerns about the intensifying impact of climate change.
Mohapatra warned that without precautionary measures, heatwaves in India will become more frequent, durable, and intense in the future. This year’s heatwave coincides with India’s commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070, highlighting the urgent need for action to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, primarily driven by coal-based power generation and industrial activities.
The IMD chief emphasized the role of human activities, population growth, industrialization, and transportation in increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases, posing a threat not only to current generations but also to future ones.
Scientific evidence supports Mohapatra’s assertions, indicating that climate change is contributing to longer, more frequent, and more intense heatwaves. The current heatwave has shattered temperature records, with New Delhi matching its previous high of 49.2 degrees Celsius, set in 2022.
As temperatures soared, the electricity grid faced unprecedented strain, recording a peak power demand of 8,302 megawatts. However, concerns arose regarding temperature readings when an automatic weather station in the Delhi suburb of Mungeshpur reported a high of 52.9 degrees Celsius, later attributed to a faulty sensor.
Mohapatra confirmed the sensor malfunction, underscoring the challenges of maintaining accurate weather monitoring infrastructure amidst extreme conditions. While regular inspections of automatic weather stations are conducted, unforeseen factors like wildlife interference can disrupt their operation.
The ongoing heatwave underscores the urgency of addressing climate change and implementing measures to mitigate its impact. As India grapples with record temperatures and soaring energy demands, concerted efforts are needed to transition towards cleaner energy sources and adopt sustainable practices to safeguard both present and future generations against the ravages of climate change.
