United Nations report stated that a severe heat wave could hit India again if the world gets warmer by 2 degrees Celsius over pre-industrial levels. The report was released by the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) on October 8.
The report revealed, “Global warming is likely to reach 1.5 degree Celsius (above pre-industrial levels) between 2030 and 2052 if it continues to increase at the same rate.”
IPCC report stated in the Indian subcontinent, specifically Kolkata and Karachi are among cities that could face an increase threat of heat waves.
“Karachi and Kolkata can expect annual conditions equivalent to their deadly 2015 heat waves. Climate change is significantly contributing to increased heat-related mortality,” report stated.
The implications of the report will be discussed at the Katowice climate change conference in Poland this December, where governments will review the Paris Agreement to tackle climate change. Being one of the largest carbon-emitting nations, India is expected to be a key player in the global event.
Report further states, “Limiting global warming to 1.5 degree Celsius as against 2 degree Celsius can reduce the number of people exposed to climate-related risks and poverty by up to several hundred million by 2050.”
Deadlier heat waves in India, as well as Pakistan
There will be rise in diseases like malaria and dengue
Increase in poverty
Adverse effects on human health