Climate change is no longer a distant threat, its impacts are being felt across India, affecting health, gender equity, and economic stability. According to Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, former chief scientist of the World Health Organization, nearly everyone in the country is now vulnerable to these effects, ranging from extreme heat and air pollution to vector-borne diseases.
Dr. Swaminathan emphasized the disproportionate impact of climate change on women and children, especially in rural areas. “Women in rural India face heightened health risks due to the continued reliance on solid fuels for cooking,” she explained, highlighting the need for clean energy access as a priority.
Such transitions not only reduce health hazards but also contribute to reducing India’s carbon footprint. Health Risks and Urban Challenges The health risks posed by climate change in India are diverse, including respiratory illnesses caused by air pollution and malnutrition due to disrupted agricultural cycles. More than 80% of the population is now exposed to these dangers, with urban migrants and the peri-urban poor particularly at risk due to inadequate housing and sanitation.
Dr. Swaminathan advocated for sustainable public transport systems as a dual solution. “Carbon-neutral public transport not only cuts air pollution but also encourages physical activity, improving public health,” she said.
Urban centers, with their dense populations and high pollution levels, remain hotspots for these .
