Banda Hits 47.6°C, Lights Go Green: India’s Hottest City Turns Off Signals To Beat Heat

As a relentless heatwave grips north India, Banda has emerged as the epicentre of the country’s rising climate stress. With daytime temperatures hovering above 45°C for days, authorities have opted for an unconventional but practical response: turning off traffic lights when the sun is at its fiercest.  

Heatwave Decision In Banda  

The district administration has disabled regular red-light cycles at major junctions during peak afternoon hours, allowing vehicles to move without prolonged halts under direct sunlight. The idea is simple but impactful: limit the time commuters, especially two-wheeler riders and pedestrians, are forced to stand on heat-radiating roads.  

On-Ground Safety Measures  

Alongside the traffic signal change, traffic police personnel have been provided umbrellas and scarves to cope with the scorching conditions while on duty. Authorities have also set up basic shelters at key intersections, offering shade and brief relief for people caught in the afternoon heat during travel.  

Wider Climate And Urban Planning Context  

Banda’s step reflects a broader pattern, with several Indian cities experimenting with turning off traffic lights during peak heat hours to reduce health risks. Urban planners and climate experts note that junctions with heavy traffic and exposed concrete can act as “heat traps,” making adaptive traffic management a small but important part of heat action plans.  

Heatwave Action Highlights  

• Traffic signals in Banda shifted to “free flow” during peak afternoon heat  
• City temperature near 47.6°C, among the highest in the country  
• Move aims to cut commuters’ waiting time at exposed junctions  
• Traffic police given umbrellas, scarves and basic shade structures  
• Other Indian cities are also testing similar traffic and heat-response measures  

Sources: National and local Indian news reports on Banda heatwave and urban heat measures