Kolkata needs to generate effective heat communications for escalating heatwaves
Times of India | 23 April 2024
KOLKATA: As temperatures soar across South Asia, cities are ramping up efforts to protect their communities from the debilitating effects of heatwaves. In Kolkata, the city government must lead the charge with a multifaceted approach aimed at proactive communication and infrastructural readiness.
Bedoshruti Sadhukhan, Associate Director of ICLEI South Asia, emphasised the importance of timely communication in safeguarding citizens."Informing the public promptly about heatwave alerts and advising precautionary measures such as avoiding outdoor activities during peak hours and staying hydrated are crucial steps," Sadhukhan stated.
To shield vulnerable populations, including children, from the scorching heat, the government is considering school closures during forecasted heatwaves and setting up cooling shelters in public spaces like markets and parks.
The urgency of these actions is underscored by recent reports from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) declaring 2023 as the hottest year on record globally, with projections indicating even more severe conditions in 2024. Additionally, the European Union's Copernicus highlighted March 2024 as the tenth consecutive month to set new temperature records.
Recognising the lack of comprehensive guidance for combating extreme heat in urban areas, the Heat Communication Guide for South Asian Cities offers essential strategies for bolstering community preparedness. Developed by ICLEI South Asia in collaboration with the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre and other partners, the guide aims to equip city governments with effective communication plans tailored to local needs.
Emani Kumar, Executive Director of ICLEI South Asia, emphasized the guide's role in enhancing community mobilisation. "Effective communication is vital in our ongoing battle against heatwaves," Kumar remarked. "This guide provides a strategic framework tailored specifically for our cities' needs, enhancing our ability to inform and mobilize communities promptly and effectively."
The guide integrates a framework for implementing Heat Action Plans (HAPs), which leverage data from meteorological services, health agencies, and utility companies to inform community-wide protective measures. "The aim is not just to distribute information but to ensure it leads to action," Sadhukhan explained.
Studies have highlighted the alarming impact of climate change on the frequency and severity of heatwaves in South Asian countries. Extreme heat events, once rare, are now occurring with alarming frequency, disrupting daily life and exacerbating health crises.
Drawing from experiences in cities like Rajshahi, Nepalgunj, Surat, and Rajkot, the guide serves as a blueprint for enhancing urban resilience across South Asia. By prioritizing access, relevance, comprehension, and actionable information, cities aim to empower all members of the community to mitigate the risks associated with extreme heat events.
Crucial Features for Effective Heat Communication Strategy
Access: Ensure easy access to information through various channels:
Print media
Local radio
Television
Social media platforms
Relevance: Tailor information to local needs:
Provide localised impact information
Contextually appropriate advisories
Help communities understand specific heat-related risks and actions
Understanding: Make information easily understandable:
Use simple language
Avoid technical jargon
Present information in accessible formats for diverse populations, including those with low literacy levels
Actionable Information: Deliver instructions that prompt and guide action:
Clear guidance on actions to take before, during, and after heatwave events
Empower individuals and communities to mitigate risks effectively