NPCCHH
National Program on Climate Change and Human Health (NPCCHH)
Overview
The National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health (NPCCHH) is an initiative by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, implemented through the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). The programme addresses the impact of climate change on human health, aiming to build a climate-resilient health system for all. The Tamil Nadu State Action Plan for Climate Change and Human Health (TN SAPCCHH) was developed to address climate-sensitive health risks unique to Tamil Nadu, with planning and implementation spanning 2022-2027.
Vision and Goals
Vision
Strengthening of healthcare services for all the citizens of the state especially vulnerable like children, women, elderly, tribal and marginalized population against climate sensitive illnesses.Goal
To Reduce morbidity, mortality, injuries and health vulnerability due to climate variability and extreme weathers.Objectives
To strengthen health care services against adverse impact of climate change on health. Specific Objectives of TN Action Plan- To create awareness among general population (vulnerable community), health care providers and Policy makers regarding impacts of climate change on human health.
- To strengthen capacity of healthcare system to reduce illnesses/diseases due to variability in climate.
- To strengthen health preparedness and response by performing situational analysis at national/state/district/below district levels.
- To develop partnerships and create synchrony/synergy with other missions and ensure that health is adequately represented in the climate change agenda in the country in coordination with the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.
- To strengthen state research capacity to fill the evidence gap on climate change impact on human health.
Key Climate-Health Vulnerabilities in Tamil Nadu
- Heat waves and extreme temperatures: Increasing frequency and severity, leading to heat-related illness and deaths.
- Floods and cyclones: Higher risk of injury, death, infectious disease outbreaks, and mental health impacts.
- Drought: Water scarcity, agricultural losses, food insecurity, and nutrition-related health effects.
- Vector-borne and water-borne diseases: Escalating rates of dengue, malaria, chikungunya, scrub typhus, leptospirosis, and diarrheal diseases due to climate variability.
- Air pollution: Worsening respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, with urban and industrialized districts at greatest risk.
Extreme Weather Events Mitigation – Cyclone Fengal
The Government of Tamil Nadu has set a benchmark in managing cyclones with zero mortality through early warnings, timely evacuations, and coordinated multi-sectoral response. Mobile health units, vector control, and disease surveillance safeguarded public health, showcasing a resilient and proactive disaster management system.Heat wave Declared as State Specific Disaster
Government of Tamil Nadu has Declared Heat Wave as State Specific Disaster in 2023 [G.O. (Ms) No. 579, Revenue and Disaster Management Department, dated 09.12.2023], and an Ex-gratia payment of Rs. 4.00 Lakh per deceased person is provided to the families of the deceased, ensuring certification from the appropriate authority [G.O. (Ms) No. 419, Revenue and Disaster Management Department, dated 15.10.2024]Heat wave Awareness
Rehydration Points throughout the State
Beat the Heat - Green shade nets or canopies at traffic signals, providing relief for motorists waiting during peak heat hours
Beat the Heat - Providing AC Helmets and Coolers for Traffic Police
Air Pollution Monitoring
Air pollution & Health
- State identified the priority cities and designated the Sentinel Hospitals for initiation of surveillance in the context of Air pollution – 7 Sentinel Hospitals
- Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board is operating ambient air quality monitoring stations in Chennai under the National Air Quality Monitoring Programme (NAMP) funded by Central Pollution Control Board.
Energy Efficient Facility
On-site renewable energy generation in the facility - Solarization
Solar panel - Kunnavakkam PHC, Chengalpattu district
Solar Heater - Melur SDH , Madurai district.
IEC For Floods and Monsoon
Heat-Related Awareness IEC
