Human-induced factors make 2024 warmest year in India since 1901
New Delhi: The year 2024 has officially been recorded as the warmest year in India since 1901, with human-induced climate change playing a significant role in driving temperatures to unprecedented levels.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that the average minimum temperature rose by 0.90°C above the long-term average, setting a new record.
Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, Director General of the IMD, noted that the annual mean land surface air temperature in 2024 was 0.65°C higher than the 1991–2020 average, surpassing the previous high recorded in 2016, when temperatures were 0.54°C above normal.
Climate experts have identified a combination of natural climatic variability, such as the El Niño phenomenon, and human-induced factors as the primary contributors to the warming trend.
Deforestation, rapid urbanization, and the creation of urban heat islands have amplified the temperature rise. These human activities, combined with global greenhouse gas emissions, have accelerated the pace of climate change, intensifying the impact of natural weather patterns.
Prolonged and extreme heatwaves were reported across India, with cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad experiencing temperatures exceeding 48°C. These conditions led to widespread heat-related illnesses, water shortages, and significant disruptions in agriculture, threatening the livelihoods of millions.
In light of the escalating climate crisis, the IMD has urged for immediate investments in climate resilience measures. Suggested strategies include urban greening, sustainable agricultural practices, and enhanced water resource management to mitigate the impacts of rising temperatures.
