KATHMANDU, JUNE 11

Chandra Kumari Punmagar, 55, from Chaubiskothi in Bharatpur Metropolitan City-10, ekes out a living by selling roasted maize. But in recent days, she has been facing increasingly harsh conditions.

"I feel like I'm being boiled as temperatures continue to rise. Roasting maize cobs in this sweltering heat all day is pure exhaustion," she shared, describing her daily struggle.

Roasting cobs over firewood under the scorching sun has not only drained her physically but also affected her business-fewer customers are venturing out to buy the popular street snack, which she sells for Rs 50 per piece.

Kal Bahadur Magar, an auto-rickshaw driver from the same locality, echoed similar concerns. "These days, I don't enjoy working at all because of the unbearable heat. But I have no choice-it's the only way to support my family," he said. He noted a significant drop in customers during the daytime.

The temperature in Chitwan soared to 39 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, severely impacting daily life. Roads remained largely deserted during the day, and several schools were temporarily closed to protect students from the extreme heat.

Those most affected are senior citizens, children, and individuals working outdoors, particularly laborers exposed to direct sunlight.

Physician Dr. Govinda Kandel from Bharatpur Hospital reported a rise in the number of patients with heat-related illnesses. According to Chitwan Medical College, two people were diagnosed with heat stroke; one of them required ventilator support but was discharged following treatment.

Dr. Kandel advised the public to avoid outdoor activities during peak heat, seek shade, and stay hydrated to minimize the risk of heat-related health issues.