Delhi is battling a severe heatwave, with the Indian Meteorological Department recording an air temperature of 43.5C, yet thermal cameras deployed by Greenpeace India measured surface temperatures up to 64C in some areas. This significant discrepancy arises because roads, concrete, and vehicles absorb and radiate heat, making urban environments feel considerably hotter than official air temperatures, especially without shade or vegetation.
Greenpeace researcher Nibedita Saha observed temperatures rising from 42C in shade to 64C for bikers in direct sunlight. Pulmonologist Dr. A Fathahudeen warns that prolonged exposure above 40C core body temperature can cause heat exhaustion, seizures, and organ failure. Vulnerable populations, such as street vendors like Sanjana Ben and Mohammad Mahfouz Alam, face extreme conditions, with ground temperatures reaching 57C near their stalls. Even indoors, homes in areas like Sundar Nagri remain around 40C, severely impacting residents' health and daily routines.
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