Heatwaves and Labour Productivity

Recent reports by the International Labour Organization and the World Bank highlight that heatwaves are causing significant labour productivity losses in India, estimated at $100 billion annually. Around 75% of India’s workforce, mainly informal and outdoor workers, are highly vulnerable to extreme heat, worsening with rising temperatures and urban heat effects

Heatwaves and Their Implications for India’s Labour Force and Economic Stability

Characterisation and Scope of Heatwaves in India

• Definition and seasonal prevalence (March to June)
• Regional vulnerability: Central, Northwest, Eastern, and Peninsular India
• Rising frequency and intensity over four decades (notable heatwaves in 2013, 2016, 2019, 2022, and 2024)
• Urban Heat Island Effect aggravated by rapid urbanisation, especially in Tier-II and Tier-III cities

Exposure to Heat Stress and its Impact on Labour Productivity

• Approximately 75% of the Indian workforce (380 million workers) engaged in heat-exposed occupations
• Vulnerable sectors: informal workers including construction labourers, farmers, street vendors, and small-scale businesses
• Quantified productivity losses: 40% reduction in earnings for informal workers during heatwaves; 2% decline in manufacturing output per 1°C temperature rise
• Consequences include increased absenteeism, reduced working hours, and deteriorating health conditions

Consequences for Agriculture and Rural Livelihoods

• Significant yield reductions in crops, notably a 5.2% decrease in wheat yield per 1°C temperature increase
• Heatwaves disrupt both farming and non-farming rural activities during peak summer months
• Vulnerability of livestock to combined heat and humidity stresses
• Compound effects when heatwaves coincide with droughts or food shortages

Governmental and Institutional Responses

• NDMA’s issuance of heatwave guidelines for workforce protection, encompassing education, work scheduling, hydration, and protective measures
• Implementation of state and municipal heat action plans with localized interventions such as provision of public water points, cooling shelters, and urban greening initiatives
• Example of Chennai’s incorporation of urban heat island data into city master planning
• Current focus largely on urban centres; rural areas face infrastructural deficits

Challenges

• Inadequate protection and cooling mechanisms for informal and outdoor workers
• Enforcement gaps in rural agricultural and livestock sectors
• Challenges in operationalising compensation and insurance schemes for heat-related work disruptions

Way Forward

• Strengthen and expand heat action plans with specific focus on rural outreach and vulnerable populations.
• Promote awareness and training programmes on heat risk mitigation for workers and employers.
• Enforce labour regulations mandating adequate rest, hydration, and protective clothing during heatwaves.
• Develop viable insurance and compensation schemes for workers affected by heat-induced work stoppages, ensuring accessibility and enforcement.
• Invest in urban planning strategies aimed at reducing heat island effects, including urban greening and water body augmentation.
• Encourage research and adoption of climate-resilient agricultural practices and technologies.