In India, extreme heat poses a severe economic threat, impacting productivity and labor conditions. Heat waves are increasing in frequency and intensity, with temperatures exceeding 50 degrees Celsius. In 2023, India reportedly lost 182 billion labor hours due to heat, potentially equating to a loss of 34 million jobs by 2030, particularly affecting agriculture and construction. Measures are being implemented to mitigate these impacts, including providing shade and water for workers. Overall, heat led to a $159 billion loss in 2021, representing 5.4% of the GDP.
"Heat waves have been increasing in India, spreading into new geographies and occurring earlier than expected. In 2023 alone, India lost 182 billion potential labor hours to extreme heat."
"But the reality is that in most cases, productivity does fall. At 35 degrees Celsius, a worker operating at moderate work intensity loses about 50% of his or her work capacity."
"In 2021, heat caused income losses of roughly $159 billion across sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, services, and construction, 5.4% of India's GDP."
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