Fossil Fuels Claim 1.72 Million Lives in India: Devastating Health Toll Revealed

According to the latest Lancet Countdown 2025 Report on Health and Climate Change, fossil fuel-driven air pollution claimed a staggering 1.72 million lives in India in 2022. The report, which tracked health impacts in over 100 countries, found that coal and petrol use alone accounted for over half a million deaths, highlighting the deadly cost of delayed climate action.

The economic toll is equally alarming. Premature mortality due to outdoor air pollution cost India $339.4 billion, equivalent to 9.5% of its GDP. Household air pollution from solid biofuels also caused 113 deaths per 100,000 people, with rural areas suffering more than urban areas.

The report also revealed the devastating impact of extreme heat in India. In 2024, the average Indian experienced 19.8 heatwave days, with 6.6 days directly attributable to climate change. This extreme heat led to the loss of 247 billion labor hours, costing the economy $194 billion, with the agriculture and construction sectors bearing the brunt.

Despite these grim statistics, the report notes some encouraging signs, such as the prevention of 160,000 premature deaths worldwide due to reduced fossil fuel use between 2010 and 2022. However, the overall message is clear: the climate crisis is a health crisis, and urgent, health-centered action is needed to address it.