News

 📰 Title: Rising Heatwave Across South Asia: Schools and Offices Respond

📍 Date: August 3, 2025

🌎 Location: Pakistan, India, Bangladesh

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🔥 Overview:

South Asia is currently experiencing one of the most intense heatwaves in the past decade. Temperatures have soared past 47°C in many regions, affecting millions and prompting urgent responses from both government and private sectors.

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📊 Key Developments:

Pakistan:

The Punjab and Sindh governments have issued heatwave warnings. Schools in several districts are reducing timings, while outdoor classes have been suspended until August 10.

India:

Northern states like Delhi and Rajasthan are facing power shortages due to increased air conditioning demand. Public health departments have issued hydration and sunstroke alerts.

Bangladesh:

The Ministry of Health has advised people to stay indoors between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Hospitals are reporting a 30% increase in heat-related illness cases.

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💬 What Officials Are Saying:

> “This is not a normal summer. The extreme weather conditions require coordinated response and awareness,” — Dr. Shazia Khan, Pakistan Meteorological Department.

> “Stay hydrated, avoid direct sun exposure, and check on elderly neighbors,” — Indian Health Ministry advisory.

🏫 How Schools and Workplaces Are Responding:

Shortened School Hours from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Remote Work Option activated for many private companies in Karachi, Lahore, and Dhaka.

Outdoor Labor Banned from noon to 4 p.m. in various cities.

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🧠 Health Tips During a Heatwave:

Drink at least 10–12 glasses of water daily

Wear light, loose cotton clothing

Avoid caffeine and carbonated drinks

Stay in shaded or cool areas

Apply sunscreen and cover your head outdoors

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📸 Public Reaction:

Many took to social media platforms like Threads and X (Twitter) to express frustration and share images of overheated city streets, melted road paint, and empty markets.

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🧭 What's Next?

The heatwave is expected to continue for at least another week. Monsoon rains are predicted to bring relief in some parts of Pakistan and India by mid-August.

Stay tuned to local w

eather updates and follow your regional disaster management authorities for alerts.