Heatwaves and adaptation – UGC NET Question

Studies and official warnings show that heatwaves are becoming longer, more frequent and more intense across many Indian regions. Climate change raises baseline temperatures while urban heat islands make cities particularly dangerous. These trends increase health risks and reduce labour productivity, especially for outdoor workers and the urban poor, underscoring the need for early-warning systems, cool shelters and resilient urban design.

Option A:
This option is incorrect because human health impacts are a central concern; mortality and illness during heatwaves are well documented.

Option B:
This option correctly connects physical hazards with social vulnerability and highlights why adaptation planning is crucial in a warming climate.

Option C:
Extreme heat generally increases electricity demand for cooling and can strain power systems; it does not “automatically” help mitigation.

Option D:
Scientific assessments attribute a significant portion of recent heat extremes to human-induced climate change, especially greenhouse gas emissions, so this statement is misleading.