In early April 2025, an unprecedented heat wave swept across India and Pakistan, subjecting hundreds of millions to extreme temperatures and posing significant challenges to public health, agriculture, and infrastructure. In response, the city of Ahmedabad, India, has implemented innovative strategies to mitigate the heat's impact on its most vulnerable residents.

The heat wave arrived earlier than usual, with temperatures in Ahmedabad reaching up to 44.8°C (112.6°F) in April. In Karachi, Pakistan, temperatures soared to 40.7°C (105.3°F) during the same period. These extreme conditions have led to increased cases of heat-related illnesses, disrupted agricultural activities, and strained energy resources due to heightened demand for cooling.

In Ahmedabad's Vanzara Vas neighborhood, a low-income area housing approximately 800 families, residents are participating in a year-long study aimed at understanding and mitigating the effects of extreme heat. As part of this initiative, 204 residents have been equipped with smartwatches that monitor vital signs and sleep patterns. Additionally, some homes have been painted with reflective white coatings, known as "cool roofs," to assess their effectiveness in reducing indoor temperatures.

The cool roofs initiative is part of Ahmedabad's Heat Action Plan, first implemented in 2013 following a devastating heat wave in 2010 that resulted in nearly 1,300 excess deaths. The plan includes early warning systems, public awareness campaigns, and capacity building among healthcare professionals. The current study aims to build upon these efforts by providing empirical data on the effectiveness of cool roofs and wearable technology in combating heat stress.

Residents have reported noticeable improvements. One participant noted that after her roof was painted, she and her family could sleep for a few hours at night, a significant relief from the oppressive heat. Researchers hope that the findings from this study will inform broader adoption of such measures in other heat-prone regions.

The urgency of these initiatives is underscored by studies indicating that climate change has made heat waves in India and Pakistan 30 times more likely. As global temperatures continue to rise, the frequency and intensity of such extreme weather events are expected to increase, necessitating proactive measures to protect vulnerable populations.

Ahmedabad's proactive approach serves as a model for other cities grappling with the challenges posed by extreme heat. By combining traditional methods like cool roofs with modern technology such as smartwatches, the city is taking comprehensive steps to safeguard its residents. As climate change continues to exacerbate heat waves, such innovative and community-focused strategies will be crucial in building resilience and protecting public health.