Telangana

Current Context: Telangana classifies heatwaves and sunstroke as state-specific disasters, aiming to enhance resilience and protect vulnerable groups.

About

• Heatwave Definition: Heatwaves occur when temperatures reach 40°C or more, or are 5-6°C above normal, with severe heatwaves exceeding 7°C.
• Impact: Heatwaves cause health issues, especially for the elderly, outdoor workers, and children, with Telangana recording 98 deaths in 2020.
• Relief Measures: The state provides ₹4 lakh ex-gratia relief, up from ₹50,000, funded through the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF).
• National Exclusion: Heatwaves are not recognized as disasters by the Union government, limiting access to national relief funds, urging the need for national recognition.