Uttar Pradesh reels under severe heatwave; Moradabad residents struggle as temperatures soar up to 46°C
Moradabad, May 24
Uttar Pradesh continued to reel under severe heatwave conditions on Sunday, with temperatures ranging between 43 degrees Celsius and 46 degrees Celsius across several districts, according to the India Meteorological Department. Heatwave to severe heatwave conditions are likely to persist over parts of the state, particularly in eastern Uttar Pradesh.
In Moradabad, residents described worsening conditions due to intense heat and rising humidity, saying daily life has been severely affected as people step out only for essential work and rely on cold beverages and water for relief.
"It is extremely hot today. Stepping out on the road is becoming very difficult," said Akhil Khan, who had stepped out to buy medicine for his child. "It was necessary to come out, otherwise I would have stayed at home."
Another resident, Khilendra, said humidity levels had further aggravated the situation, making it difficult to remain outdoors for long durations.
"It's very hot, and the humidity is extremely high. We mostly stay indoors and only come out for urgent necessities. Otherwise, we finish our work in the morning or evening," he said.
Resident Ashok Mittal also urged people to take precautions amid the extreme weather conditions and avoid unnecessary exposure to the sun.
"The temperature has risen significantly today, causing a lot of difficulty. In this heat, one should drink plenty of water, take care and avoid stepping out in the sun unless it is essential," he said.
At several locations in Moradabad, people were seen stopping at roadside stalls distributing sharbat to get relief from the scorching heat. Gurjit Singh said the initiative was being carried out outside a Gurdwara for passersby.
"Due to the extreme heat, the Gurdwara is distributing sharbat to provide some relief. The temperature is at its peak this season, which is why we are serving it," he said.
Another passerby appreciated the effort, saying such initiatives help people cope with extreme weather conditions.
"The heat is intense and the sun is scorching. This arrangement for distributing sherbet is a very good initiative. People are stopping to drink it to get some relief," he said.
Meanwhile, Congress leader Supriya Shrinate criticised the Uttar Pradesh government over power cuts amid the ongoing heatwave, alleging widespread distress among residents.
"It's unbearably hot, but in Uttar Pradesh, the people are forced to endure hell--nowhere else are there such severe power cuts," Shrinate said, adding, "From Meerut to Ballia, people are distressed. Children, the elderly, women and farmers are all suffering in this scorching heat."
The IMD has advised people to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, stay hydrated and limit outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Respect to the Gurdwara for distributing sharbat! That's the real India—community coming together despite the government's failure. But honestly, why are we still seeing such extreme heat every year? The concrete jungle is killing us. We need more green cover and less construction. Also, the power cuts are unacceptable. The Uttar Pradesh government should focus on infrastructure instead of blaming the opposition. Hamare bachche aur buzurg log bahut pareshan hain.
Look, I'm a farmer in western UP, and this heatwave is destroying our crops. The government talks about doubling farmers' income, but here we are, suffering without water for irrigation because the rivers are drying up. Moradabad is known for its brass industry, but how can workers work in metal shops at 46°C? The administration should declare a heatwave holiday for outdoor workers. Ye sirf politics nahi, ye jaan ka sawaal hai!
As someone who lived in India for a few years, I remember these heatwaves well. The difference is that now there are more concrete buildings and fewer trees. The government needs to mandate cool roofs and increase shaded public spaces. Also, power cuts in such conditions are inhumane. I hope the UP government listens and acts quickly.
It's good that people are taking precautions like staying indoors and drinking water, but the government should also issue heatwave warnings on a larger scale—like sending SMS alerts and using local radio. The sharbat distribution is a nice gesture, but it's not enough. Power cuts are the biggest issue right now. If the government can't guarantee electricity, at least provide free water and shaded rest areas. Tohfa hoga UP sarkar ka!
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.