Delhi Heatwave Alert: 3 Urgent Tips to Survive Scorching Temperatures and Major Traffic Disruptions

Delhi is bracing for intense summer heat, with temperatures set to reach 42°C from April 16–18, prompting a yellow alert. Residents are advised to stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and avoid peak heat hours to prevent heat-related illnesses. Meanwhile, traffic disruptions from the IPL match at Arun Jaitley Stadium could cause congestion, especially around key routes.

The city’s push for sustainable transportation continues with an extended Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy, though challenges remain, particularly around infrastructure and affordability for drivers transitioning from CNG autos. Despite progress, residents face a balancing act between managing immediate climate impacts and adapting to longer-term changes in mobility and environmental policies.

Delhi Heatwave Alert: 3 Urgent Tips to Survive Scorching Temperatures and Major Traffic Disruptions

As Delhi’s summer intensifies, residents face a trifecta of challenges: blistering heatwaves, traffic snarls from major events, and a pivotal shift toward sustainable transportation. Here’s a breakdown of what’s unfolding and how it impacts daily life:  

1. Heatwave Alert: Staying Safe as Temperatures Soar

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has activated a yellow alert (April 16–18) as temperatures are set to peak at 42°C. A yellow alert signals caution, urging vulnerable groups—seniors, children, and outdoor workers—to limit exposure during peak hours (11 AM–4 PM).  

Key Insights:  

• Health Risks: Prolonged heat raises risks of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. Hospitals often report a 20–30% spike in heat-related cases during such alerts.  

• Practical Tips:  

• Hydrate frequently; avoid caffeine/alcohol.  

• Wear loose, light-colored clothing.  

• Use curtains/fans to cool homes; minimize oven/stove use. 

• Long-Term Context: April 2025 follows a trend of earlier, harsher summers linked to climate shifts. Urban heat islands (concrete-heavy areas) in Delhi can feel 4–6°C hotter than rural zones. 

2. IPL Traffic Advisory: Plan Ahead for Smooth Commutes

With the Delhi Capitals vs. Rajasthan Royals match at Arun Jaitley Stadium today, traffic disruptions are expected near Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, JLN Marg, and Rajghat Ring Road (4 PM–11:30 PM).  

Smart Alternatives:  

• Public Transit: Use Delhi Metro’s Violet Line (Central Secretariat–Kashmere Gate) or Blue Line (RK Ashram Marg). Stations like Delhi Gate and ITO are within walking distance.  

• Ride-Sharing: Apps like Uber/Ola may surge prices; book early.  

• Local Impact: Street vendors and shops near the stadium often see a revenue boost, but residents report frustration over annual traffic gridlock during IPL season. 

3. Delhi’s EV Policy Extended: A Green Transition with Bumps

The Delhi government extended its Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy by three months, continuing subsidies to curb pollution. However, proposed changes in “EV Policy 2.0” have sparked debate:  

What’s Changing?  

• CNG Auto-Rickshaw Phaseout: New CNG auto permits may halt by August 15, pushing drivers toward e-autos.  

• Subsidies: Buyers still get up to ₹30,000 off e-autos and waived registration fees. 

Ground Realities:  

• Driver Concerns: Many CNG auto owners worry about high upfront e-auto costs (₹3–4 lakh vs. ₹1.5 lakh for CNG). “Loans are hard to get, and charging stations are scarce,” says Rajesh Kumar, an auto driver in Rohini.  

• Progress So Far: Delhi has 15,000+ EVs on roads since 2020, but infrastructure gaps persist. 

Expert Take: “The policy is visionary but needs stronger financing support and charging networks,” notes Anumita Roychowdhury of CSE.  

Why This Matters 

These developments reflect Delhi’s struggle to balance growth, sustainability, and livability. While the heatwave demands immediate personal precautions, the traffic and EV policies underscore systemic challenges in urban planning. For residents, adapting means staying informed, planning commutes wisely, and engaging with policymakers to shape inclusive green transitions.