Srinagar, 26th November 2024
As sub-zero temperatures grip Kashmir and Ladakh, the region’s vulnerable populations—especially the elderly, newborns, and those recovering from illness—are facing unprecedented challenges. The lack of proper clothing, heating arrangements, and the dangers of early morning or late evening exposure leave them at life-threatening risk. While these issues are particularly acute in Kashmir and Ladakh, they reflect a growing global concern as harsh winters expose weaknesses in healthcare, housing, and community resilience. Protecting vulnerable populations during extreme weather is now a global imperative.
The absence of adequate heating systems in homes, businesses, and healthcare facilities highlights a critical infrastructure gap. Dr. Mohd Yusuf Tak, President of the Doctors Association Kashmir (DAK), stressed that freezing hospital environments increase the risk of hypothermia, which can be fatal for the elderly, newborns, and postoperative patients. Frequent power outages make electric heating unreliable, leaving both patients and healthcare workers exposed. He called for a 24/7 essential power supply to health institutions across Jammu and Kashmir.
Dr. Owais H. Dar, General Secretary of DAK, acknowledged that heating systems have been activated in many hospitals, but emphasized that all healthcare facilities need these systems urgently. However, frequent power cuts undermine care in both hospitals and homes. “The freezing cold affects not only patients but also doctors and nurses. A cold-stressed environment compromises medical professionals’ ability to function effectively,” he noted.
Dr. Masood Rashid, senior executive member of DAK, highlighted the elderly’s increased vulnerability to cold due to age-related health conditions. In regions with unreliable heating, the elderly face heightened risks. He stressed the need for the general public to take preventive measures, including proper clothing, limiting exposure to cold during early mornings and evenings, and keeping warm.
To safeguard public health, the Doctors Association Kashmir issued guidelines on staying warm and reducing cold-related risks. Simple actions like insulating windows, sealing drafts, and layering blankets can significantly improve warmth. Maintaining a minimum indoor temperature of 68°F (20°C) is crucial. Wearing layers of moisture-wicking clothing, covering extremities, and wearing non-slip footwear can prevent heat loss and accidents. Additionally, installing grab bars in bathrooms and clearing snow from paths can prevent fall-related injuries.
For the elderly, maintaining proper nutrition, hydration, and light indoor exercise is key. Emergency kits, including blankets, flashlights, batteries, and medications, are essential, especially in areas prone to power cuts. Homes with gas heaters should also have carbon monoxide detectors.
Children, with their smaller body mass and developing immune systems, are also vulnerable in harsh winters. Parents should dress them in multiple layers, ensuring hands, feet, and heads are covered to prevent frostbite. Outdoor play should be limited, and children should be monitored for signs of cold stress. Indoor activities can help reduce restlessness and boredom during winter confinement.
Though the challenges in Kashmir and Ladakh are acute, they reflect broader, global issues. Harsh winters, exacerbated by climate change, are becoming more unpredictable worldwide. Even regions accustomed to milder winters are experiencing colder-than-usual conditions, stretching resources and preparedness systems to their limits. Governments and communities must collaborate to address these challenges by subsidizing heating for low-income families, launching community snow-clearing programs, and raising public awareness about winter safety. Healthcare facilities must have backup power supplies, reliable heating, and trained personnel for winter emergencies.
Dr. Rubeena Bhat, spokesperson for DAK, stated that the way we respond to winter’s challenges reflects our values as a society. By prioritizing the well-being of the most vulnerable, we address immediate needs while building resilience for the future. Together, we can turn this season of adversity into one of care, solidarity, and collective strength.
Dr. Rubeena Bhat
Spokesperson, Doctors Association Kashmir (DAK)
