Urban Heat Island Effect: Analyzing Delhi’s Record-Breaking Temperatures and Policy Implications

In May 2024, Delhi witnessed a severe heatwave with temperatures in several pockets soaring to nearly 48°C. While seasonal variations are expected, the intensity of this heat is significantly amplified by the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect. UHI occurs when urban areas experience much higher temperatures than their surrounding rural counterparts, primarily due to human activities and the physical characteristics of the built environment. The primary drivers of UHI in Indian metropolises like Delhi include the replacement of natural vegetation with heat-absorbing surfaces like concrete and asphalt. These materials have low albedo, meaning they absorb and retain solar radiation during the day and release it slowly at night. Furthermore, the "urban canyon" effect—created by tall buildings—traps heat and restricts wind flow. Anthropogenic heat from air conditioners, industrial processes, and vehicular emissions further compounds the problem.