With temperatures hitting previously unheard-of heights—a dubious 52.9°C in Delhi, for example—the NCR is facing an environmental emergency with broad ramifications. The previous record, set in 2016 by Phalodi in Rajasthan, was 51°C.
Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan are also experiencing the searing reality, as the temperature there has risen dangerously over the past week. Some striking instances are the 48.8°C recorded in Rohtak and the 46°C recorded on the hottest day in Chandigarh.
Source: Forbes India
These harsh circumstances are a part of a larger trend that is prevalent throughout North India. The severe weather has increased the risk of heatstroke for those who work outside and pushed schools in the area to close a few days early before the planned break. A serious water problem exacerbates this.
The need for water has increased in tandem with the rising temperatures, yet the supply is still woefully insufficient. There have been instances of frantic locals fighting for water as inhabitants in certain impacted towns and cities are receiving it through tankers. There are serious threats to public health because of this severe condition.The conflict is a sign of changing weather patterns in India’s cities.
Source: Republic World
Record-breaking temperatures underline the pressing need for adaptation measures, which are made worse by urban heat islands. This phenomena, in which temperatures in urban regions are much higher than in rural ones, is caused by things like the spread of concrete and the reduction of green spaces.
Heatwaves are becoming more intense worldwide due to climate change. Without sufficient planning for climate resilience, urbanisation has made cities into furnaces. Heatwaves will become more frequent and severe if adequate mitigation and adaptation methods are not put into place. The terrible death in Delhi ought to function as a warning sign for further efforts to shield vulnerable communities from the effects of climate change.
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