Ludhiana continued to reel under intense heatwave on Wednesday as the mercury soared above 44°C, making it extremely difficult for residents to step outdoors during daytime. The scorching sun, hot winds and rising humidity led to roads and markets wearing a deserted look in the afternoon as people preferred to remain indoors.
According to weather reports, the city recorded a maximum temperature of around 44.1°C, which was several degrees above normal. Even nights have become unusually warm, adding to the discomfort of the residents.
The harsh weather conditions have now become a major concern for schoolchildren. Parents across the city have started urging the authorities to announce early summer vacations, saying it has become difficult for children to travel to schools in such extreme heat.
Many parents said children were returning home exhausted due to the intense hot weather conditions in the afternoon. “It has become difficult even for adults to step outside in the daytime. Small children are facing more problems while travelling to schools,” said a parent waiting outside a school.
The impact of the heatwave was visible on city roads, where commuters were seen covering their faces with cloth and scarves to protect themselves from the scorching sun. Street vendors and labourers were among the worst affected as they continued to work under open skies.
Doctors have advised the residents to avoid stepping out during peak afternoon hours, drink plenty of water and wear light cotton clothes to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department has already issued a heatwave alert for the state, warning that temperatures were likely to remain high over the next few days.
