As the country grapples with one of the most severe heatwaves in recent years, public health experts are raising serious concerns over a surge in heat-related illnesses. Temperatures have crossed 45°C in several parts of northern and central India, triggering widespread health alarms, particularly among vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, outdoor workers, and people with pre-existing conditions.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of prolonged heatwave conditions, attributing them to global warming, rampant urbanisation, and the shrinking of green spaces. Cities like Delhi, Nagpur, Lucknow, and Jaipur have turned into virtual furnaces, where people struggle to cope with sweltering days and stifling nights.

Doctors across hospitals in the capital and other cities report a sharp increase in cases of dehydration, fatigue, fainting, and more alarmingly, heatstroke. According to Dr. Rajeev Bansal, a senior physician at RML Hospital, heatstroke can be fatal if not treated promptly.

It occurs when the body fails to regulate its temperature and can lead to damage to vital organs including the brain, heart, and kidneys. Symptoms such as a body temperature above 40°C, confusion, rapid breathing, nausea, and loss of consciousness must be treated as medical emergencies.

Before reaching the dangerous stage of heatstroke, many individuals suffer from heat exhaustion. This condition presents itself with symptoms such as excessive sweating, muscle cramps, dizziness, and extreme weakness. It is a signal from the body that urgent cooling and rehydration are needed. Without timely intervention, heat exhaustion can quickly progress into more serious complications.

Medical professionals across the board stress that prevention remains the most effective strategy. Staying indoors during the peak heat hours of the day, particularly between noon and 4 p.m., is advised. People are urged to drink water frequently, wear loose and breathable clothing, and avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages, which contribute to dehydration.

While many resort to using fans and coolers, those without access to such amenities are encouraged to use wet towels, take frequent baths, or rest in shaded areas to maintain body temperature. Light, water-rich meals such as fruits and vegetables can also help the body cope with excessive heat.

In case someone shows signs of heatstroke or severe exhaustion, immediate steps should be taken to move them to a shaded or cool place, remove excess clothing, and cool the body using cold compresses or ice packs on areas like the neck and armpits.

Oral rehydration solutions can be given if the person is conscious, but in critical cases, hospitalization for intravenous fluids and advanced care may become necessary.

Government agencies have responded with a series of measures to mitigate the crisis. Local administrations have established emergency cooling centers, deployed water tankers in low-income neighborhoods, and rolled out public awareness campaigns advising citizens on how to protect themselves.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has also activated its heatwave action plan, urging timely alerts and coordinated responses from health and municipal departments.

A senior official from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare remarked that heatwaves must no longer be viewed as just seasonal discomforts but as growing public health emergencies that require long-term planning.

He emphasized the importance of increasing urban green cover, improving housing ventilation, and educating communities on climate adaptation strategies.

As heatwaves become more frequent and intense, experts warn that the burden on public health systems will only increase. The key lies in vigilance, preparedness, and collective responsibility to protect those most at risk. Amid the soaring temperatures, timely care, community support, and environmental consciousness may be the strongest tools we have to beat the heat.