Mahottari, June 4: An intense heatwave sweeping across Madhes Province has severely disrupted daily life, with soaring temperatures forcing people indoors and affecting work, business and public services.
Scorching sunshine from early morning has made it difficult for residents to venture outside except for essential tasks. Activity in towns, markets and rural areas has noticeably declined during the daytime as temperatures continue to rise.
The extreme heat has hit daily wage labourers particularly hard. Ram Bahadur Sada, 45, of Rajkhor in Gaushala Municipality-4, said he has no choice but to continue working despite the harsh conditions, as missing work would affect his family’s livelihood.
Similarly, 70-year-old farmer Ram Dinesh Yadav of Aurahi Municipality-2 said the heat has made outdoor movement increasingly difficult. He noted that roads, houses and farmlands have become unbearably hot, while strong hot winds have worsened the discomfort. Even drinking water feels warm, he said, with constant sweating disrupting daily routines.
Local businesses have also reported a decline in customers. Ramesh Gupta, a trader in Gaushala, said daytime market activity has dropped significantly as people prefer to shop during the cooler evening hours.
The rising temperatures have increased electricity consumption, leading to frequent power outages in Gaushala and Bardibas. Greater use of fans, coolers, refrigerators and water pumps has put additional pressure on the power system.
Residents have criticised the Nepal Electricity Authority for failing to adequately prepare for the seasonal surge in electricity demand. Frequent outages, including at night, have added to public hardship during the ongoing heatwave.
Dhanbir Mahato, a youth from Gaushala, urged authorities to install drinking water facilities in public places and sprinkle water on roads to reduce heat. He also called on local governments to launch awareness campaigns on heatwave safety measures.
As temperatures soar, many residents are staying indoors during the day and venturing out only in the evening. Parks, waterside areas and other open spaces have begun attracting crowds seeking relief, while some people are turning to swimming pools to escape the heat.
According to Rajiv Jha, a meteorologist at the Janakpur office of the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, hot conditions are expected to persist for at least three more days, with maximum temperatures forecast to reach between 39°C and 41°C.
Health workers have reported an increase in heat-related illnesses, including dehydration, headaches, fever and extreme fatigue. Dr. Abinash Mandal said children, postpartum women, elderly people and heart patients are particularly vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat.
He advised the public to stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight and urged local authorities to ensure access to safe drinking water in public places. He warned that inadequate hydration during extreme heat could lead to serious health risks and even prove fatal. #heat #nepal
