Nagpur, April 22 (NationPress) A relentless heatwave has engulfed the Vidarbha region in Maharashtra, with temperatures in Nagpur reaching a blistering 44 degrees Celsius. As the sun mercilessly shines down, the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has fully activated its Heat Action Plan to protect the community from the intense heat.

In Nagpur, streets shimmer beneath the extreme temperatures, and the urban landscape resembles a furnace.

Nagpur is notable for being the first municipal corporation in Maharashtra to officially implement a Heat Action Plan, designed to reduce health risks associated with heat.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Alert for the Vidarbha region, including Nagpur, for April 23 and 24, indicating that extreme temperatures will persist and advising vigilance.

Other prominent cities in the area—Akola, Wardha, Chandrapur, and Amravati—are also experiencing similar severe heat, significantly disrupting daily life.

However, some relief may be on the horizon, as the IMD anticipates a cooling trend by the weekend.

To tackle the intense heat, the NMC has implemented various proactive measures. Water coolers have been installed at multiple public sites, providing essential relief to those out and about.

In a considerate initiative, municipal gardens are now open all day long, allowing residents a shaded refuge to escape the harsh midday sun.

Traffic intersections across the city are being equipped with green nets for shade, a move that has garnered appreciation from drivers who must pause at signals under the blazing sun. Although these nets are currently present at select locations, residents are advocating for broader coverage.

“Traveling in this heat is incredibly challenging,” remarked a local commuter. “They should place green nets at every intersection.”

Another person commented, “The green nets are a genuine relief. At least we can wait at the signal without being scorched. Every traffic signal should feature them.”

Additionally, drinking water stations have been established at strategic points around the city, further enhancing the civic body's initiatives to keep residents hydrated and safe.

Animal advocates are also calling on the government to provide drinking water for the city's birds and animals at public spots to help them quench their thirst amid the extreme heat.