No AC, Packed Buses: How Commuters in Mumbai Are Facing Heatwaves! When to expect relief

The heat wave of Mumbai is most experienced by thousands of daily commuters onboard crammed buses and train. Despite the average temperature being in the mid-30s, the high humidity makes the “feels like” temperature even hotter resulting in physically draining travel.

With Non-AC buses, overcrowded local trains, and long wait times, individuals are continuously exposed to extreme heat with no ventilation. People experience discomfort, dehydration and fatigue from travelling to work well before their workdays even begin.

Why the Commute Feels So Much Worse

The issue is not just the temperature alone, but the combination of high humidity and being in crowded trains or buses. In a closed or crowded space, the heat your body produces builds up fast and at the same time there is very little air movement. Therefore, you are in a micro heat environment where the surrounding temperatures feel much hotter than outside. 

Additionally, being a coastal city contributes to the issues of commuting in heat and humidity. With the ocean providing much of the humidity, the moisture in the air reduces your body’s ability to cool itself and increases the chances to suffer from heat related illnesses and heat stroke. 

For commuters, this means that there are days of prolonged exposure with no relief, particularly during peak hours.

What People Are Doing to Cope

Many commuters have started to change their commute patterns by: 

– Changing their travel times to earlier or later in the day to avoid peak heat 

– Carrying with them water, electrolytes and light snacks 

– Using AC transport when it is available 

– Wearing light, breathable clothing 

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When Can Mumbai Expect Relief?

There will be some relief, but it will be gradual. Pre-monsoon activity, such as thunderstorms and short bursts of rain, may come late May, giving temporary cooling; however, the true relief from high temperatures and humidity will not arrive until the southwest monsoon comes, typically in mid to late June, so until then, heat and humidity will continue, especially during the day.

Final Words

Mumbai’s heatwave is not merely an event of poor weather; it also makes it very difficult to commute around the city. To get through the worst of the heat until the monsoon arrives, it is important to take precautions to limit your exposure, drink plenty of water, and adjust your daily schedule.

FAQs

1. Why Are Commuting Times Hotter Than The Actual Temperature?

Due to humidity, overcrowding, and lack of airflow, commuting during the day can be much hotter than average daily temperatures.

2. Is It Safe To Travel In High Temperatures?

Yes, there are precautions you can take, such as drinking plenty of water and choosing less busy travel times.

3. When Will Temperatures Decrease?

There may be some temporary relief from pre-monsoon rains, but full relief is expected when the southwest monsoon arrives in mid to late June. 

4. What Is The Biggest Risk Commuters Face?

Dehydration and heat-related illness are the biggest risks for commuters this time of year.