An IndiGo flight from Delhi to Bagdogra was delayed for three hours at Indira Gandhi International Airport due to high ground temperatures. This occurrence exemplifies a developing problem: Indian towns are becoming “heat traps” as a result of rapid, imbalanced urbanization, declining water bodies, and rising greenhouse gas emissions.
IMD Predicts Above-Normal Temperatures
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts above-normal temperatures in June in northern and central India, including Delhi. This leads to one of the longest heatwaves, with daily highs above 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) since May 12. The peak temperature was 44 degrees, but the heat index made it feel like 49.2 degrees.
IndiGo Flight Delay Due to Heat
The delayed IndiGo flight to Bagdogra, scheduled to depart at 2:10 pm and arrive at 4:10 pm, finally took off at 5:51 pm. The delay, confirmed by FlightRadar24, was attributed to high ground temperatures causing a technical snag. IndiGo emphasized that passenger safety is their top priority, and measures were taken to ensure a prompt departure. Regular updates were provided to passengers, and the inconvenience was regretted.
Delhi Becoming a Heat Trap
The delay reveals a larger problem: Indian cities like Delhi are turning into heat traps. This transition is being driven by unbalanced urbanization, shrinking water bodies, and rising carbon emissions. This summer’s blistering heat has claimed dozens of lives.
Climate change and urbanization, according to Krishna S. Vatsa of the National Disaster Management Authority, are major contributing factors. The loss of wetlands and permeable areas exacerbates the situation, making nights almost as unpleasant as days.
Study Highlights Diminishing Cooling Effect
The Center for Science and the Environment (CSE) conducted research that indicated this concerning tendency. Between 2001 and 2010, nighttime temperatures in Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai dropped by up to 13.2 degrees below daytime highs. From 2014 to 2023, this cooling impact was reduced, with temperatures dropping by up to 11.5 degrees. “Hot nights are as dangerous as midday peak temperatures,” according to CSE research. The absence of nightly cooling gives little reprieve from the day’s heat.
Response and Future Actions
In response, many Indian states have created heat action plans, provided drinking water, upgraded medical facilities, and rescheduled outdoor work and school vacations. However, Anumita Roychowdhury of CSE highlights the lack of a clear mandate for long-term strategies. Delhi’s long-term strategy includes improving building insulation, providing refuge for the urban poor, and investing in cooling water bodies. However, these activities require financial assistance. Vishwas Chitale of the Council on Energy, Environment, and Water emphasizes the necessity of financial support in achieving these objectives. Ensuring that cities can cope with and handle extreme heat is crucial for their citizens’ health.
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