Amid the scorching sun and intense heatwaves, an oppressive stillness gripped wholesale markets, trading centres, grain markets, and commercial bazaars across the city on Sunday. All tourist spots and parks remained deserted throughout the day due to the unbearable heat, severely affecting the businesses of stallholders.
From 10am to sunset, commercial activity in markets drastically declined. Shopkeepers were seen wiping sweat off their faces while sitting under fans blowing hot air, waiting in vain for customers.
The extreme heat also forced birds to seek refuge in flocks under thick tree canopies. With temperatures soaring between 45°C to 47°C, the skies appeared empty as even birds avoid flying.
The Citizen Action Council has appealed to residents to place water and grains in shaded areas of their balconies and rooftops to help birds survive the heat — a charitable act considered a form of ongoing charity (sadaqah jariyah) for households.
Meanwhile, the relentless heatwave, combined with scarce rainfall, has led to a drop in the underground water table, and many delicate bird species have been found dead.
The intensity of the sun has also impacted loading and unloading activities, badly affecting the working class and daily-wage labourers.
After Eidul Azha, people's purchasing power has significantly declined, and due to the heat, most avoid visiting markets during the daytime. Some citizens only venture out after sunset, but even then, business activity has plummeted. Instead of buying bulk items from wholesale markets, many now prefer purchasing small quantities from neighbourhood shops.
Meanwhile, in homes, streets, mosques, imambargahs, and churches, people have started praying fervently for rain to break the intense heat.
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