India has experienced its hottest year in recorded history, with 2024 surpassing all previous temperature benchmarks since data collection began in 1901. This alarming milestone underscores the intensifying impact of climate change on the subcontinent.
According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), average temperatures across the country were significantly higher than normal, with several regions enduring prolonged heatwaves. These extreme conditions not only strained public health systems but also adversely affected agriculture, water resources, and energy demands.
Experts attribute the record-breaking heat to a combination of global warming and localized factors such as urban heat islands and deforestation. “The increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events are a clear indication of climate change’s grip on India,” said a senior IMD official.
The year saw temperature spikes disrupt daily life, with cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata recording unprecedented highs. Heat-related illnesses surged, and several states reported acute water shortages, amplifying the challenges for millions.
India’s 2024 heat record serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive climate action, including emission reductions, sustainable urban planning, and robust disaster preparedness measures.
