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New policy framework aims to strengthen heatwave preparedness in Karnataka
On April 30, 2026, the Karnataka government began weighing a statewide policy framework to improve heatwave preparedness. The proposal outlines a governance structure, interdepartmental coordination, emergency measures, urban cooling initiatives, and support for vulnerable groups to build resilience against extreme heat.
Why It Matters
If adopted, the framework could enhance public health protection, emergency response capacity, and climate adaptation in Karnataka, potentially setting a benchmark for heatwave resilience nationwide.
Timeline
6 Events
Focus on vulnerable groups and real-time heat management
April 30, 2026
Vulnerable groups such as construction workers, street vendors, children, elderly residents, homeless individuals, traffic police personnel, public transport workers and agricultural labourers are identified as priorities. The framework envisions integrating heat management into the state's disaster response and health surveillance systems, and establishing a real-time Heat Emergency Response Network supported by digital dashboards and GIS mapping to track high risk zones.
Urban cooling initiatives under Climate-Resilient Urban Cooling Mission
April 30, 2026
In urban areas, the framework proposes a Climate-Resilient Urban Cooling Mission targeting Bengaluru and other cities, including increasing tree cover, cool roof technologies, reflective road surfaces, shaded pedestrian pathways, cooling-enabled bus shelters, and rejuvenation of water bodies to reduce urban heat.
Worker safety and preventive health measures
April 30, 2026
The plan emphasizes mandatory rest periods for outdoor workers during peak afternoon heat, training programs for ASHA workers and emergency responders, and public awareness campaigns on hydration and prevention of heat related illness.
Emergency response measures proposed
April 30, 2026
Emergency components include hydration points, shaded shelters, cooling centres in public spaces, and dedicated Cool Rooms in government hospitals to treat heatstroke, along with distribution of oral rehydration solutions in schools, bus stands, labour camps and other public institutions.
Interdepartmental coordination framework outlined
April 30, 2026
The framework calls for coordination among Revenue, Health, Labour, Education, Urban Development, Transport, Rural Development and municipal bodies, along with police and water supply agencies, with each district required to prepare Heat Action Plans supported by early warning systems linked to meteorological data.
Proposal submitted: Karnataka Heatwave Resilience & Integrated Heat Action Management Framework – 2026
April 30, 2026
The Karnataka State Policy and Planning Commission submitted the Karnataka Heatwave Resilience & Integrated Heat Action Management Framework – 2026 to the state government, outlining a governance model led by the State Disaster Management Authority with a State Chief Heat Officer and District Nodal Heat Officers, and detailing institutional changes, emergency response mechanisms, and long-term climate adaptation measures.