Recently, the single head bench of Justice Anoop Kumar Dhand of the Rajasthan High Court has called for urgent and coordinated action to address the severe impacts of climate change, including extreme heatwaves that have claimed numerous lives in the state and across the country.

The Court underscores the critical role of individual and collective efforts in mitigating climate change and protecting natural resources.

"Earth is the only known planet having life in this Universe. We do not have a planet-B which we can move onto," the order states, urging immediate action to curb activities that harm the environment, such as deforestation and pollution.

During the course of the hearing, the Court expressed concern over the rising temperatures, noting that extreme heat now regularly exceeds 50 degrees Celsius, affecting millions.

Further, the Court criticized the lack of effective implementation of existing laws designed to combat heat-related illnesses and called for the declaration of heatwaves and cold waves as national calamities.

Justice Dhand cited the "Prevention of Deaths Due to Heat and Cold Waves Bill, 2015," which remains unpassed, as a crucial legislative measure that could provide necessary frameworks for preparedness and response to extreme weather conditions. The bill proposes measures like establishing cooling spaces, distributing essential supplies during heatwaves, and providing compensation to families of those who lose their lives due to extreme weather.

Further, the court also noted the ineffectiveness of the Heat Action Plan (HAP) developed by the State of Rajasthan, calling for more rigorous implementation and adherence to the prescribed alerts and action plans. It highlighted the need for coordinated efforts by various government departments, including the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the National Disaster Management Authority, to ensure comprehensive preparedness and response.

''We all should respect and maintain everything we get from our mother Earth. We should save the mother Earth so that our future generations can live a safe environment.''

As a result of this order, the Chief Secretary of Rajasthan and the Under Secretary of the Ministry of Home and Health have been directed to form committees to oversee the implementation of these plans and to ensure measures like tree plantation, water conservation, and reduction of pollution are actively pursued.

This suo-moto action by the Rajasthan High Court underscores the urgency of addressing climate change and its impacts on human life and calls for immediate and sustained efforts to protect the planet and future generations.