Declare heatwaves as State-specific disaster, provide ex-gratia to affected labourers: Letter to Gujarat CM

Counterview Desk 

In a representation to Bhupendra Patel, Gujarat chief minister, Vipul Pandya, general secretary, Bandhkam Mazdoor Sangathan, has said that heatwaves should be declared as State-specific disaster, insisting on the need to undertake relief measures and provide ex-gratia to affected labourers and citizens. Text:

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We write to you with deep concern regarding the escalating impact of extreme heatwaves across Gujarat, which are posing a serious threat to the health, livelihood, and lives of citizens—especially daily-wage earners, migrant labourers, construction workers, street vendors, gig workers, and other vulnerable communities exposed to prolonged outdoor conditions.

Extreme heat is no longer merely an environmental issue—it has become a growing humanitarian crisis. With the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves due to climate change, Gujarat is now facing life-threatening conditions such as heat stress, dehydration, heat exhaustion, and even fatal heatstroke.

Following the deadly 2010 heatwave in Ahmedabad that led to 1,344 excess deaths, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) introduced India’s first Heat Action Plan (HAP) in 2013. However, this year, the AMC delayed activation of its HAP until after a red alert was issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on March 10. Although the plan includes measures like providing ORS at public transport points, water kiosks, suspension of construction activities from 12 PM to 4 PM, and extended public garden hours, implementation has been limited and remains largely confined to urban areas.

In May 2024, Gujarat witnessed one of its longest and most intense heatwaves in recent memory, with temperatures in Ahmedabad ranging between 44°C and 46°C over several consecutive days. While advisories were issued, field assessments and on-ground enforcement reveal a glaring gap in protective measures.

Bandhkam Mazdoor Sangathan has observed  serious violations at most construction sites across Ahmedabad City, collectively employing around 2,00,000 workers, despite repeated  red alerts from the IMD and government advisories, most sites continued to operate during peak noon hours without mandated rest breaks, shaded rest areas, or access to clean drinking water—putting thousands of workers at severe risk daily.

In light of the above, we urgently request the Government of Gujarat to take the following immediate and long-term measures:

1. Declare Heatwaves as a “State-Specific Disaster” under the Disaster Management Act

- This will facilitate timely, structured response planning and ensure proper allocation of resources through the State Disaster Response Mitigation Fund (SDRMF).

- As per Paragraph 8.143 of the 15th Finance Commission Report, heatwaves are now recognized under the national disaster framework, making them eligible for financial assistance under SDRMF and the National Disaster Mitigation Fund (NDMF).

- States are permitted to utilize up to 10% of their annual SDRF allocation for heatwave relief, subject to prescribed conditions.

2. Provide Ex Gratia Compensation for Heatwave-related Deaths

- Announce an ex-gratia payment of ₹4 lakh to the families of all individuals—including citizens, workers, and emergency personnel—who lose their lives due to heat-related illnesses.

- States like Tamil Nadu and Rajasthan have already established this precedent in recent years, showing the path forward for Gujarat.

3. Ensure Worker Safety through Urgent Protective Measures

- Enforce mandatory rest breaks for all outdoor workers between 12 PM to 4 PM during heatwave days.

- Facilitate free and widespread distribution of ORS, drinking water, shaded rest shelters, and mobile water supply units at construction and street-level work sites.

- Arrange for emergency medical aid, health camps, and ensure temporary health insurance coverage for labourers exposed to outdoor work during peak heat periods.

4. Strengthen Public Awareness and Community Engagement

- Disseminate real-time heat alerts and multilingual advisories using radio, mobile alerts, and local channels.

- Partner with NGOs, community-based organisations, and ward-level committees to ensure last-mile outreach, especially in labourer-dense areas and urban slums.

Gujarat has historically demonstrated leadership in climate resilience and heatwave preparedness. We urge your esteemed office to reinforce that legacy through urgent, compassionate, and science-driven interventions that prioritize the lives and dignity of our most vulnerable citizens.

We would be grateful for the opportunity to meet and discuss this matter further, and remain available for any support required in reaching out to affected communities and ensuring effective implementation.