As the globe observes World Meteorological Day on March 23, 2024, with a reflective glance at its 150-year legacy, the theme “At the Frontline of Climate Action” underscores a critical narrative. Instituted in 1950 by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), this day signifies the convergence of efforts and innovations in meteorology and hydrology. As we embrace its 150th anniversary, the day is a beacon, illuminating the strides made in weather forecasting and climate change mitigation, while reiterating the indispensability of continued global cooperation to navigate the climate labyrinth.

The theme for 2024, “At the Frontline of Climate Action,” resonates deeply, particularly in the context of a nation like India. Weather and climate dynamics play a pivotal role in shaping the lives of its billion-plus inhabitants. Data from the Indian Meteorological Department reflect a worrying escalation in extreme weather events, attributed in part to climate change, necessitating urgent and informed responses.

At this juncture, the role of organizations like SEEDS becomes paramount. SEEDS’ endeavors in India epitomize the spirit of proactive and informed climate action, mirroring the ethos of World Meteorological Day.

Heatwave issues in Delhi

Delhi’s climate is a study in extremes. Dense fog and cool air characterize its winters, while monsoons bring torrential rains, causing the Yamuna River to overflow its banks, impacting nearby villages and valleys. However, the most challenging season is undoubtedly summer. From April to June, an oppressive heat envelops the city, with temperatures soaring from 35°C to a scorching 48°C. In these conditions, even a small flame can persist for days, creating a perpetual state of emergency, largely invisible to many.

Unlike cyclones, whose devastation is tangible and immediate, heat is a silent killer. This invisibility makes it particularly dangerous. While the government advises staying indoors during peak heat hours, this isn’t a viable option for many. Rickshaw drivers, construction workers, and others reliant on daily wages cannot afford to miss work, and for millions living in cramped, tin dwellings, indoor temperatures can exceed those outdoors.

SEEDS : Building Resilience on Heatwaves

In the face of rising temperatures, SEEDS’ initiative in the Kishan Kunj area of East Delhi stands as a testament to ingenuity and resilience. With 139 households equipped with thermal roofing for better temperature control and two water stations installed, SEEDS has significantly improved local living conditions. Moreover, their 415 awareness and training sessions have empowered community members, school children, and various key stakeholders, enhancing their understanding and response capabilities to heatwave conditions.

SEEDS’s impact extends to innovative community-driven solutions. Their “Beat the Heat” competition garnered over 14,000 entries, highlighting creative, cost-efficient strategies like lining roofs with millet seeds or jute sacks to reduce indoor temperatures. These grassroots solutions not only cool homes but also foster a sense of community and shared responsibility.

As SEEDS looks to the future, their goal is ambitious: to reach 315 million people in high-risk areas across India by 2030. The organization also plans to expand its model beyond India, proving that their approach is universally applicable with the right mix of technology and human passion.

Through proactive strategies and empowering community involvement, SEEDS and its volunteers, including community women, ASHA, and Anganwadi workers, are leading a movement to mitigate indoor heat distress, particularly among the vulnerable.

Embracing the power of collective action, we at SEEDS are committed to nurturing a harmony between communities and nature. Each step we take towards sustainability is a step towards a resilient and hopeful future.” – Arijit Das, Senior Director Fundraising & Advocacy, SEEDS India

In summary, World Meteorological Day 2024, with its focus on frontline climate action, finds a strong echo in the works of SEEDS India. As we celebrate this day, SEEDS’ endeavors stand as an example of how concerted efforts can shape a more resilient and sustainable future, resonating with the global call for climate action and cooperation.