Vadodara: A searing heatwave has gripped the city over the past week, pushing temperatures up to a scorching 43.6°C and disrupting normal life as residents remained confined indoors during peak afternoon hours. With the blazing sun emptying streets during the day, the city has been witnessing a clear shift in its daily rhythm as people adjust to the extreme weather conditions.As temperatures soared, major roads that are usually bustling with activity wore a deserted look in the afternoons. Most residents chose to stay indoors, relying on air-conditioned homes and offices, and venturing out only when necessary.The impact of the heat was felt most by outdoor workers, including street vendors, delivery personnel and traffic police staff, who continued to work under harsh and exhausting conditions.“The city saw its hottest week, but the weather is expected to improve in the coming days. Temperatures are likely to drop by one to two degrees Celsius,” said Mukesh Pathak, CEO of Gujarat Nature Conservation Society.Public spaces such as parks and playgrounds remained largely empty during daytime hours, while even roadside tea stalls reported a significant drop in customers.However, as the sun set and temperatures eased slightly, the city gradually came back to life. Families and youngsters began stepping out in the evenings, filling up ice-cream parlours, juice centres and kulfi stalls in search of relief from the heat.Eateries and dessert shops continued to see heavy crowds late into the night as people tried to cope with the sweltering weather through chilled snacks and cold beverages.To escape the intense heat, many residents also headed to Kotana beach along the Mahi river on the outskirts of the city, where boating and river dips have become popular weekend attractions. Akota-Dandia Bazaar Road too has emerged as a preferred evening hangout spot during the summer season.Meanwhile, health experts have advised citizens to stay well hydrated, wear light clothing and avoid stepping out during peak afternoon hours as the heatwave conditions are expected to persist.
