In recent years, the world has experienced extreme weather events that highlight the escalating impact of climate change. India’s capital, Delhi, has now joined the ranks of regions recording temperatures exceeding 50 degrees Celsius. Recently, Delhi’s temperature reportedly soared to 52.9 degrees Celsius, the highest ever recorded in India. Additionally, Iran reported an alarming development last July, when the heat index caused temperatures to spike to an unprecedented 66 degrees Celsius. These instances illustrate the significant changes occurring in Earth’s climate, raising concerns among environmentalists.

Reason for Increasing Temperature In Delhi

Delhi’s increasing temperatures can be attributed to several factors, including both global and local influences:

1. Climate Change:

• Global Warming: The rise in global temperatures due to increased greenhouse gas emissions is a primary driver. This results in higher average temperatures and more frequent and intense heatwaves worldwide, including in Delhi.

2. Urbanization:

• Urban Heat Island Effect: Delhi’s rapid urbanization has led to the expansion of concrete and asphalt surfaces, which absorb and retain heat. This phenomenon, known as the urban heat island effect, causes urban areas to be significantly warmer than their rural surroundings.

3. Deforestation and Green Space Reduction:

• Loss of Vegetation: The reduction of green spaces and deforestation in and around Delhi limits the natural cooling effects provided by trees and plants, exacerbating temperature rises.

4. Air Pollution:

• Particulate Matter: High levels of air pollution in Delhi contribute to trapping heat in the atmosphere, which can increase local temperatures. Pollutants like black carbon also absorb sunlight and heat the air directly.

5. Population Density and Human Activity:

• Energy Consumption: The dense population and increased energy consumption, especially from air conditioning, vehicles, and industrial activities, generate additional heat.

6. Geographic and Climatic Factors:

• Geographic Location: Delhi’s inland location and semi-arid climate make it naturally prone to high temperatures, especially during the summer months.

7. Climate Patterns:

• Changing Weather Patterns: Changes in monsoon patterns and reduced rainfall can also contribute to prolonged periods of high temperatures and reduced humidity, intensifying the heat.

These factors collectively contribute to the rising temperatures in Delhi, posing significant challenges for public health, infrastructure, and the environment. Addressing these issues requires a combination of global efforts to combat climate change and local measures to mitigate the urban heat island effect and improve air quality.