Ahmedabad witnesses sharp drop in temperature as Gujarat shivers
Ahmedabad experienced a biting cold spell on Thursday as the minimum temperature plunged to 11.4°C, marking a sharp six-degree drop within a mere 24 hours. The maximum temperature, at 28.3°C, remained slightly below the seasonal norm. As the city shivered, residents felt the full force of the winter chill, with early morning winds amplifying the cold. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) attributed this sudden drop to the persistent influence of northerly and northeasterly winds. With dry conditions prevailing, humidity levels are expected to dip as low as 11%, raising concerns over health implications, especially for those prone to respiratory issues.
The cold wave was not restricted to Ahmedabad alone. Other cities in Gujarat recorded even lower temperatures, with Naliya emerging as the coldest at 9.8°C, followed by Diu and Gandhinagar at 10.5°C and Deesa at 10.9°C. Vadodara witnessed a sharp fall in its minimum temperature, dropping to 12.2°C, which was 5.2°C lower than the previous day. In contrast, coastal regions like Okha remained significantly warmer, recording a relatively balmy 20.2°C. Experts suggest that while the chill is expected to persist for a few more days, a gradual increase of two to three degrees in minimum temperatures is likely over the weekend. However, the persistent dry spell remains a challenge, with no immediate prospects of rainfall in Gujarat, Daman, Diu, and Dadra & Nagar Haveli.
Rising air pollution adds to civic concerns
While Ahmedabad braved the cold, air quality remained an alarming issue. The city registered an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 113, categorising pollution levels as moderate but still concerning for vulnerable groups. Experts cautioned that with drier air and lower temperatures, suspended pollutants tend to linger for longer durations, exacerbating respiratory ailments. Citizens, particularly children, the elderly, and those with conditions such as asthma, have been advised to limit outdoor exposure during early mornings and late evenings. Comparatively, other urban centres such as Delhi and Mumbai frequently record higher AQI levels during winter, with figures often crossing 200, making Ahmedabad’s situation relatively better. However, experts warn that the absence of rainfall and persistent dry conditions could push pollution levels further upward, making it imperative for authorities to address vehicular and industrial emissions on priority.
From a civic standpoint, the temperature drop has raised concerns over the readiness of urban infrastructure to support the vulnerable population, including street dwellers and daily wage workers who struggle to find adequate shelter. While some night shelters exist, their capacity remains limited, leaving a significant portion of the population exposed to harsh weather conditions. Cities like Delhi and Bengaluru have implemented additional emergency shelters during peak winter, an initiative that Ahmedabad could consider to safeguard its urban poor from biting cold nights.
Sustainability and climate resilience in focus
The sudden temperature dip underscores the growing unpredictability of seasonal patterns, which many experts attribute to climate change. Gujarat, known for its typically mild winters, has witnessed fluctuating temperature extremes in recent years, pointing to a broader shift in weather trends. Scientists suggest that erratic temperature drops and prolonged dry spells are indicative of larger climatic disturbances, necessitating urgent action to bolster urban resilience. Unlike cities such as Amsterdam and Copenhagen, which have successfully incorporated climate-responsive urban planning, Indian cities still lag in implementing large-scale sustainable solutions that address both extreme heat and cold.
Sustainability experts argue that adaptive measures, such as increasing urban green cover and developing climate-resilient housing, could mitigate the adverse effects of temperature fluctuations. In Ahmedabad, initiatives such as reflective rooftops and water-sensitive urban design could play a crucial role in stabilising microclimates, making the city more resistant to extreme weather conditions. Additionally, fostering renewable energy adoption, such as solar-powered public infrastructure, could offset the growing reliance on energy-intensive heating and cooling systems. While the current cold spell is temporary, it serves as a crucial reminder that Indian cities must invest in long-term climate adaptation strategies to ensure sustainable urban living.
Looking ahead: Weather trends and public advisories
As winter maintains its grip over Gujarat, residents have been advised to take necessary precautions. IMD officials predict a slight rise in minimum temperatures over the next three days, providing some respite from the biting cold. However, dry weather will persist, and the risk of rising pollution levels remains a pressing concern. Authorities have urged citizens to stay hydrated, use moisturisers to combat dry skin, and dress in layers to stay warm. The lack of rainfall in the forecast also signals continued water conservation efforts, as groundwater levels are expected to remain unchanged.
From an urban development perspective, the government must focus on enhancing winter preparedness in cities, ensuring adequate shelter for the homeless, and addressing the looming air pollution crisis. While the current dip in mercury is temporary, its implications on urban infrastructure, sustainability, and public health cannot be ignored. As Ahmedabad and other cities continue to battle extreme weather patterns, the need for integrated urban planning, responsive civic policies, and climate-conscious governance has never been more critical.
