Delhi feels heat as mercury crosses 40 degrees

New Delhi, May 2 (IANS) Delhiites are feeling the heat and preferring to confine themselves indoors with the day temperatures in the national capital settling above the 40 degrees Celsius mark for the last few days.

As air-conditioners in homes and offices are running all day long, the power demand in the city is rising gradually and is expected to shoot up to 6,100 MW this summer, surpassing all previous records.

"Delhi is anticipating a peak demand of 6,100 MW in the first fortnight of June," said Arun Goyal, principal secretary (Power), Delhi.

In 2013, the power demand rose to 5,653 MW during the summer season.

However, the power companies are ready to deal with the rising demand.

"Power distribution companies have made adequate arrangements to meet the anticipated peak demand," Goyal said.

The city is reeling under intense heat and it experienced the hottest May 1 as well as April 29 since 2010 as the maximum temperatures settled at 42.8 and 41 degrees Celsius respectively.

Delhi residents are having a tough time dealing with the scorching heat and clear sky. Those riding two-wheelers are the most affected and were seen using scarves to cover their noses and ears to protect themselves from sun and constantly hydrating themselves at roadside kiosks selling lemonade, water and cold drinks.

"If you drive a two-wheeler in the afternoon, you can feel your skin is burning. I take breaks once after every 15 minutes to have a cold drink or just rest under a shade," said Vineet Singh, who undertakes an hour-long journey daily from his home in north Delhi's Rohini to his office in Gurgaon, a suburb near south Delhi.

Naturally, many prefer to stay indoors in the comfort of air-conditioners and coolers or at least put off venturing out till the sun goes down in the evening.

For those who cannot afford costly air conditioners and high power bills, desert coolers and khas curtains have come to the rescue.