Current trends and future climate projections for India indicate an escalation in the intensity, frequency, and duration of heat waves. Coastal cities like Thane face additional risks, with compounding factors such as humidity and urban heat islands. The interaction of these elements can elevate felt temperatures by 3-4 degrees Celsius. To prepare for and mitigate the heat risks in Thane city, the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) and Thane Municipal Corporation have collaborated to proactively develop the city's inaugural heat action plan. Dedicated to achieving zero mortalities from extreme heat, minimising heat-related illnesses and stress, and reducing economic impacts, the Thane Heat Action Plan adopts a ‘when, where, who and how’ (3WH) framework for heat action strategies, aligning with the 2019 NDMA National Guidelines for Preparation of Action Plan: Prevention and Management of Heat Wave (NDMA 2019). It undertakes granular assessment of heat risks by considering historical patterns and future projections encompassing felt heat (temperature + humidity), urban heat island effects, warm nights, and socioeconomic factors at a granular ward (Prabhag Samitee) level.
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