Blistering Heat Wave Grips India
NEW DELHI, (IANS) – Blistering summer heat continued to scorch northern India on May 30, with temperatures remaining dangerously high. In Delhi, the mercury reached 116.6°F, slightly lower than the previous day’s record-breaking 127.22°F in one area, but still unbearably hot.
Rajasthan is experiencing some of the highest temperatures. Pilani recorded an all-time high of 120.2°F (49°C), while Churu hit 122.9°F (50.5°C), making it the hottest place in the state. The previous highest maximum temperature in Pilani was 119.5°F (48.6°C) on May 2, 1999, and Churu’s all-time high was 123.4°F (50.8°C) on June 1, 2019. Several other cities in Rajasthan also saw temperatures soaring above 113°F (45°C), including Ganganagar (120.9°F), Phalodi (120.2°F), Bikaner (118.9°F), Kota (118.8°F), Jaisalmer (118.4°F), Jaipur (115.9°F), and Barmer (114.8°F).
The heatwave has had severe effects on health and education. In Bihar, at least 50 students fainted in various schools due to the extreme heat. In Sheikhpura, 24 students collapsed on the premises of a government school in Mankol village, prompting staff to rush them to the hospital. Villagers expressed their outrage over the incident.
In Uttar Pradesh, a policeman was seen performing CPR to revive a monkey that had fainted and fallen from a tree due to the extreme heat.
Television channels are showing desperate scenes as people chase water tankers or climb atop them to fill containers. The acute water shortage is being attributed to low levels in the Yamuna River from where Delhi gets its supply.
The relentless heat has also affected daily life and commerce. With more residents opting for home delivery of food and groceries to avoid going out in the sun, delivery workers have been spending extended hours on their scooters and motorbikes. Companies like Zomato and its grocery delivery arm, Blinkit, told Reuters they have implemented additional measures to support their delivery personnel, including providing refreshments and comfortable clothing.
As the heatwave continues, authorities and citizens alike are grappling with its impacts on daily life, health, and essential services.
