As temperatures soar in India's capital, Delhi, residents are facing the harsh reality of hotter nights exacerbating the already scorching days. The city recently recorded its highest-ever temperature of 49.9 degrees Celsius, leading to uncomfortable and dangerous conditions for its inhabitants.
A report by the Centre for Science and Environment revealed that Delhi is experiencing only a modest 8.5 degrees Celsius drop in temperature at night, significantly lower than the 12.2 degrees cooling down in urban outskirt areas. This lack of nighttime relief is taking a toll on people's health, especially those without access to air conditioning.
Individuals like Sagar Mandal, a bicycle rickshaw driver, are feeling the impact of the relentless heat. Mandal expressed concerns about the physical strain caused by the extreme temperatures, highlighting the urgent need for change to address the escalating heat crisis.
Scientists have warned that hotter nights are a consequence of the climate crisis, posing health hazards such as heat stress. Studies indicate that higher nighttime temperatures can disrupt sleep patterns and hinder the body's ability to repair and rejuvenate during rest.
The urban heat island effect further intensifies the heat in cities like Delhi, where concrete structures absorb and retain heat, creating uncomfortable living conditions. The strain on resources, including electricity and water supply, is exacerbating the situation, leading to health issues and even fatalities.
Healthcare professionals, like Dr. Ajay Chauhan, are witnessing a surge in heat-related illnesses, with heat strokes becoming a significant concern. The lack of respite for individuals working outdoors is contributing to a rise in hospital admissions and fatalities due to heat-related complications.
The vulnerable homeless population is particularly at risk, with reports of sleeplessness and heat-related ailments among those living on the streets. Tragically, the number of heatwave-related deaths, especially among the homeless, has seen a concerning increase in recent years.
As India grapples with the impact of rising temperatures and extreme heat events, urgent measures are needed to protect the population from the health risks posed by hotter nights and scorching days in cities like Delhi.
