Severe Heatwave in India and Pakistan Linked to Climate Change

23-Apr-2025 03:12 PM

Bangalore. A severe heatwave has gripped parts of India and Pakistan from mid-April, raising concerns about the growing impact of climate change.

Weather experts say such extreme temperatures were earlier seen in May-June, but now they are appearing a month earlier, which is an alarming sign.

The El Niño weather pattern, along with man-made environmental damage, is being blamed for the worsening conditions. Experts warn that if no serious action is taken, agriculture, health, education, and service sectors may face heavy disruptions.

In particular, crop productivity is at risk. While the area under cultivation remains stable, India’s food security depends heavily on maintaining high yields of rice, wheat, pulses, oilseeds, sugarcane, and cotton. Declining productivity due to extreme weather could pose a major threat.

Though India’s situation is under control so far, Pakistan’s fragile economy may not withstand the pressure of climate shocks like heatwaves, droughts, and floods. Experts emphasize the urgent need for effective climate action to avoid future disasters.