New Delhi: As North India experiences intense heatwave, several areas in New Delhi on Tuesday recorded extreme temperatures with mercury touching 50 degrees Celsius. 

Why Is It So Hot In Delhi?

The scorching heatwave gripping Delhi and its neighboring regions has been attributed to a combination of urban heat island effects and broader climatic patterns impacting northern and central India. With temperatures soaring to unprecedented levels, reaching a staggering 50 degrees Celsius in Rajasthan's Phalodi, the situation has become increasingly dire.

The heatwave's impact extends beyond Delhi, affecting large parts of northern and central India, with states like Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Gujarat experiencing record-breaking temperatures. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued 'red' warnings for several regions, signaling a high risk of heat illness and heatstroke across all age groups.

Experts point to urbanization and land surface concretization as key factors exacerbating the heatwave. Akash Vashishtha, founder-secretary of the Society for Protection of Environment and Biodiversity, highlights the urban heat island effect, which traps heat in urban areas, leading to significantly higher ambient temperatures.

The heatwave's toll extends beyond health and well-being, affecting productivity, education outcomes, and food security. Studies show a correlation between hot school years and decreased student performance, while inadequate cold-chain infrastructure leads to significant food losses annually.

With the World Bank projecting millions of job losses globally due to heat stress-associated productivity decline by 2030, urgent measures are needed to mitigate the impacts of extreme heatwaves. Addressing urban heat islands, improving access to water and electricity, and implementing climate-resilient infrastructure are crucial steps in safeguarding vulnerable populations and building resilience against future heatwaves.