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Unbearably long summer

Last Updated 04 April 2010, 18:19 IST
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While Bangalore has always been known for its refreshing weather, the scorching heat this year has surprised many. There was a time when the residents didn't even think about using air-conditioners but the past few months (except for that welcome shower recently) have been hard to handle for everyone. Bangalore’s climate, one of its most prized assets, has seen a sea change in the past decade. Metrolife speaks to Bangaloreans about what can easily be termed as the ‘hottest summer’ of the City.

Shruti, a student says, “The weather in Bangalore used to be incredibly different earlier. There was so much of green cover that even the sun didn’t affect us much.” Another disgruntled resident, Lorna adds, “Usually the heat wave started somewhere around end of March but this year it’s pathetic. The heat kicked off in mid February and it’s 35 degrees already.”

While there has been a slow movement towards higher temperatures throughout the world, people associate this with the construction activities in the City. “The reasons for the increase in temperature are insensible construction contributing to the heat island effect, loss of green cover, encroachment of lakes and increase in vehicles,” says Shaheen, a professor. “Earlier when the heat got a little uncomfortable, you knew that Ugadi was round the corner but the April showers would come along with it. The number of trees that have been cut have had a noticeable impact on the weather, especially the old rain trees that gave so much green cover,” says Aravinda. While the permanent residents of Bangalore have seen the City changing over the years, people who have recently migrated to the City have felt it too. “The weather was so much better last year.
I am planning to put my air-conditioner which I had brought down from Delhi,” says Jaya, a professional.

Jomon, who moved to the City a few years back says, “The reason I loved living here was the great weather. But this year has been intolerable.” And there seems to be no good news in sight. The average temperature is expected to remain around 35 degrees with occasional showers.

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(Published 04 April 2010, 12:21 IST)

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