Chennai's pregnant women endure brutal heat

In Chennai's Perumbakkam, pregnant women face extreme heat, with queues forming early at health centres. Resettlement colonies, characterized by dense concrete housing, offer minimal shade and poor ventilation, trapping heat. Temperatures inside homes remain dangerously high even after sunset, impacting sleep and causing discomfort for expectant mothers.

Studies indicate that homes in these areas frequently exceed 32°C at night. This prolonged heat exposure, coupled with inadequate living conditions and demanding daily routines, intensifies physiological strain on pregnant women. Such conditions elevate risks of dehydration, exhaustion, and more severe pregnancy complications.

Research from 2024 found that pregnant women exposed to high temperatures face increased risks of miscarriage, preterm birth, and low birthweight. Vulnerable groups, including those with anemia or undernutrition, are disproportionately affected as they cannot afford to stop working. The lack of adequate recovery time at home exacerbates these risks.

Urban planners and housing activists advocate for climate-resilient designs with better ventilation and green cover. However, financial constraints and high housing density in areas like Perumbakkam present significant challenges. Implementing strategies for heat mitigation is crucial to protect vulnerable populations.