As temperatures surged to a season-high of 45 degrees Celsius, city residents faced considerable discomfort due to the scorching heatwave. Road traffic remained sparse between noon and 3 pm, with most people preferring to stay indoors. Outdoor workers—such as street vendors, dhaba employees, labourers, petrol pump attendants, and parking lot personnel—were particularly impacted. Many covered their heads and faces to shield themselves from the direct sun.

Sales of refreshing beverages like lemon soda, lassi, mango shakes, sugarcane juice, ice creams, and soft drinks peaked to record levels. Seasonal fruits such as watermelons, musk melons, and mangoes also witnessed a surge in demand. Various community groups set up chhabeels (free drink stalls) to offer relief to passersby. Water parks became popular destinations for families enjoying the school summer holidays, while swimming pools at venues such as the Gymkhana Club, HMV College, and Sports College experienced increased attendance.

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Open marketplaces like Rainik Bazaar and Model Town saw minimal footfall, whereas air-conditioned malls and showrooms attracted comparatively more visitors. “My daughter’s school is closed for summer, and I had enrolled her in an art camp. But today, the heat was so unbearable that I decided to keep her home,” said Seema Jain, a homemaker.

The situation remained grim into the evening, with temperatures still hovering around 40 degrees Celsius at 7 pm. Roads near popular hangout spots had little activity. In a show of compassion, many residents placed water containers outside their homes and workplaces to help birds and stray animals cope with the extreme heat.

Meteorologists have forecast that the region will continue to experience hot and arid conditions for at least the next four days.