India’s capital, New Delhi, has been grappling with a brutal heatwave, with temperatures reaching a scorching 52.9 degrees Celsius (127.22°F) – possibly the nation’s highest ever. This extreme heat has caused devastating consequences, including deaths, water shortages, and suffering wildlife.
At least 24 people succumbed to suspected heatstroke in the eastern states of Bihar and Odisha, highlighting the heatwave’s deadliness. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts the heatwave to persist in eastern India for another two days, while northwestern and central regions might see some relief.
The scorching temperatures have exacerbated Delhi’s existing water woes. Residents were seen desperately chasing water tankers, a grim illustration of the acute water shortage. The government attributes the crisis to low water levels in the Yamuna River, the city’s primary water source.
India is not alone in battling extreme temperatures. Large parts of Asia are facing similar conditions, with neighboring Pakistan recording temperatures exceeding 52°C (125.6°F) this week. Scientists warn that climate change, fueled by human activities, is intensifying these heatwaves.
India, the world’s third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases, has historically resisted cuts to its energy-related emissions, citing its developing nation status. However, the country has pledged to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070.
Reference- Reuters, Times Of India, BBC, India Meteorological Department (IMD) website, The Guardian