An increasing number of Indians are adopting white rooftops as an affordable and effective way to beat rising temperatures. With summers becoming longer and hotter, especially in densely built urban areas, staying cool is becoming both more challenging and costly.

For many low-income families, air conditioners are not a viable option. That’s why a simple yet effective solution is gaining popularity across India—painting rooftops white. Known as cool roofing, this technique helps lower indoor temperatures by a few degrees without consuming electricity. It’s affordable, low-tech, and proving to be a game-changer.

Heat death in India in 2024

In 2024, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare reported 360 heatstroke deaths, but a separate report recorded a much higher toll of 733 deaths and over 40,000 heatstroke cases across 17 states. Between March and June, India endured record-breaking temperatures, with 37 cities exceeding 45°C.