By Tirthankar Mitra Reduced to a single Lok Sabha member from West Bengal post 2024 elections, the state Congress unit is busy picking up the pieces of the jigsaw which would help it arrive at the causes of its dismal state and chart its path of revival. Apart from an organisational rejig and the search […]
Dubai is currently experiencing extreme heat conditions, with temperatures feeling as high as 60°C (140°F) due to the combined effects of high air temperatures and humidity. This extreme weather is putting the city under significant stress and raising concerns about the future impacts of climate change.
The official temperature in Dubai during July averages around 39.4°C (102.9°F), with nighttime lows of about 32.3°C (90.1°F). However, the heat index, which factors in humidity, can make it feel significantly hotter, reaching dangerous levels of 54°C (129.2°F) and beyond. These extreme conditions are not only uncomfortable but also pose serious health risks, especially to those who must work or spend extended periods outdoors.
One of the key factors exacerbating the heat in Dubai is its high humidity levels, which hover around 51% in July. This combination of heat and humidity creates a stifling environment that can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke if proper precautions are not taken. The local authorities have issued advisories urging residents and visitors to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activities during peak hours, and seek shelter in air-conditioned environments whenever possible.
The extreme heat has also highlighted the broader implications of climate change for the region. Dubai, like many parts of the Middle East, is expected to see even more extreme temperatures in the coming decades. Studies predict that heatwaves will become more frequent and intense, making large parts of the region uninhabitable without significant adaptations in infrastructure and lifestyle.
Dubai has already been taking steps to mitigate the effects of its harsh climate. The city has invested heavily in green building technologies, which include better insulation and energy-efficient cooling systems to reduce the reliance on air conditioning. Additionally, there are ongoing efforts to increase the amount of green space within the city to help lower temperatures through natural cooling.
Urban planners in Dubai are also looking into innovative solutions such as reflective building materials that can help reduce the urban heat island effect. This phenomenon, where cities become significantly warmer than their rural surroundings due to human activities, exacerbates the already extreme summer temperatures.
The health risks associated with such extreme weather are not limited to heat-related illnesses. High temperatures can also exacerbate existing health conditions such as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. The healthcare system in Dubai is bracing for an increase in cases related to heat stress, and there are ongoing public health campaigns to educate people about the dangers of prolonged exposure to extreme heat.
Moreover, the economic impact of extreme heat is significant. High temperatures can reduce productivity, especially in sectors such as construction and outdoor services. The energy demand for cooling also spikes during heatwaves, putting additional strain on the power grid and leading to higher utility costs for both residents and businesses.
The current heatwave in Dubai serves as a stark reminder of the challenges that lie ahead as global temperatures continue to rise. It underscores the urgent need for both mitigation and adaptation strategies to address the risks posed by climate change. As Dubai continues to grow and develop, it will need to balance economic growth with sustainable practices that can help protect its residents and infrastructure from the escalating impacts of extreme weather.
Sources:
– Visit Dubai
– Weather Atlas
– Reuters
By Sushil Kutty Does AlphabetGoogle CEO Sundar Pichai, have a pronounced Harris bias? Kamala Harris of Indian-Jamaican origin is up against Republican former President Donald Trump, close pal of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. But India-born Sundar Pichai is a left-leaning head honcho now charged with anti-Trumpism. This, as Indian-Americans across the USA have been […]
By Dr. Gyan Pathak Rahul Gandhi’s speech in the Lok Sabha on the Union Budget 2024-25 on July 29, was not only an expose of the lotus trap, but also a voice given to the entrapped, the muted, and the people living constantly under fear. Avoiding jargons and the technical terms, he tried to explain […]
Armenia and Turkey are poised to engage in significant negotiations aimed at normalizing relations, with Armenian representative Ruben Rubinyan and Turkish special envoy Serdar Kilic scheduled to meet at the border. The upcoming talks signify a pivotal moment in the diplomatic efforts between the two nations, reflecting a mutual interest in addressing long-standing issues and advancing cooperation.
The meeting, which will take place at the Armenia-Turkey border, is part of ongoing diplomatic efforts to mend ties that have been historically strained. Both sides have expressed a commitment to addressing contentious issues through dialogue, marking a notable step in efforts to overcome decades of tension. This development follows a series of preliminary discussions and confidence-building measures designed to lay the groundwork for more comprehensive negotiations.
Rubinyan and Kilic, key figures in their respective governments, have been central to the dialogue process. Their engagement represents a significant commitment to addressing bilateral concerns, which include historical grievances and regional security issues. The talks aim to tackle these challenges head-on, fostering an environment conducive to lasting resolution and mutual understanding.
The Armenian-Turkish relationship has been fraught with historical disputes, including disagreements over the recognition of the Armenian Genocide and territorial issues. However, the current diplomatic efforts reflect a willingness on both sides to move beyond past conflicts and explore opportunities for cooperation. This shift in approach highlights the evolving geopolitical landscape and the potential for positive change in regional dynamics.
The normalization talks come amid a broader context of shifting alliances and geopolitical realignments in the region. Both Armenia and Turkey have demonstrated a readiness to engage in dialogue as a means of addressing complex issues and promoting stability. The discussions at the border are expected to cover a range of topics, including economic cooperation, regional security, and cultural exchanges, with the aim of building a foundation for long-term collaboration.
International observers and stakeholders are closely monitoring the talks, recognizing their potential impact on regional stability and relations between the two countries. The successful resolution of outstanding issues could pave the way for enhanced diplomatic and economic ties, contributing to a more stable and cooperative regional environment.
As the meeting approaches, both Armenia and Turkey have expressed optimism about the prospects for productive discussions. The engagement of Rubinyan and Kilic underscores the seriousness with which both nations are approaching the normalization process. The outcome of the talks will likely influence the trajectory of future relations and the broader regional landscape.
The negotiations represent a critical juncture in Armenian-Turkish relations, with the potential to redefine historical narratives and open new avenues for collaboration. The outcome of the talks will be closely watched by international observers and could have far-reaching implications for regional diplomacy and stability.
By Arun Srivastava Give a bad name to the dog and kill it. This is actually happening with the railways. Recurring train accidents are the best motives for marketing the train services to private sector. Selling a profit making organisation would invite severe public outcry and criticism. It would give a bad name to the […]
By Devasis Chattopadhyay If it does not arouse debate, it’s not French. Exuberant, original, inclusive – and definitely controversial – sum up the unforgettable opening ceremony of the Paris Olympic Games 2024. As it was obviously French, it held the whole world in thrall during the weekend but the naysayers. The French audaciously took the […]
By Dr. Gyan Pathak Known for having transformed the Delhi education scenario in government schools from poor to very good, even better in performance than private schools in the National Capital Territory, in just a decade, AAP government is now on the way to transform Punjab school education to provide high quality education for all […]
By Sushil Kutty Prominent voices in Pakistan have realized that diplomatic engagement between India and Pakistan is a Pakistani pipedream. The multilateral Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit to be held in Islamabad in October holds promise but Pakistanis know Prime Minister Narendra Modi is unbending. The setback to Modi in Lok Sabha elections 2024 hasn’t helped. […]
By Satyaki Chakraborty President of Venezuela Nicholas Maduro won the Presidential elections held on July 28 by defeating the national opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez. As per the election council announcement, Maduro got 51.2 per cent of the votes polled as against 44.2 per cent received by Gonzalez. The council said that with about 80 per […]
By Nantoo Banerjee At a time when one after another foreign firms are abandoning China in protest of repression, the Indian government is, instead of inviting these global firms to start operations in the country, freshly looking at foreign direct investments (FDIs) from China. India is believed to have decided to relax visa restrictions on […]By Nantoo Banerjee At a time when one after another foreign firms are abandoning China in protest of repression, the Indian government is, instead of inviting these global firms to start operations in the country, freshly looking at foreign direct investments (FDIs) from China. India is believed to have decided to relax visa restrictions on […]Arabian Post Staff Wego, the leading travel app in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), has teamed up with the Aseer Region Development Authority (ASDA) to promote the scenic and cultural treasures of Saudi Arabia’s Aseer region. This collaboration aims to enhance the visibility of Aseer’s unique landscapes and rich heritage, positioning it as a prime destination for travelers. The Aseer region, known for its mountainous […]
By Harihar Swarup Puducherry is said to be the BJP’s plan B to get a foothold in the Dravida land. But it took a serious hit in the Lok Sabha elections when its candidate in the lone constituency in the union territory, home minister A. Namassivayam, suffered a humiliating loss against the Congress’s V. Vaithilingam. […]
By Satyaki Chakraborty The new coalition government of South Africa formed last month after the national elections on May 29 is facing a major crisis as the leading party African National Congress (ANC) has been taken to court by its partner Democratic Alliance (DA) on the issue of a speech delivered by the President Cyril […]
By Dr. Gyan Pathak “Indian economy needs to generate average of nearly 78.5 lakh jobs annually until 2030 in the non-farm sector to cater to the rising workforce,” said the Economic Survey 2023-24 tabled in the Parliament of India on July 22. Next day on July 23, the Union Budget 2024-25, announced several schemes for […]
By Arun Srivastava Prime Minister Narendra Modi lifting the 44-year-old ban on government employees from joining RSS and allowing them to actively participate in its programmes, might be construed as a tactical move to buy peace with RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, but more than that, it is a move to legalise RSS interference in managing […]
By Sushil Kutty Who benefits from blaming Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for the BJP’s poor Lok Sabha polls performance in Uttar Pradesh? As things have moved, Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya is the dark horse though Union Home Minister Amit Shah is also talked about as somebody who gains from a downgraded Yogi. OBC […]
By K Raveendran Rahul Gandhi and a host of Congress leaders have criticised Nirmala Sitharaman and the Modi government for copy-pasting from the Congress manifesto while formulating the new budget. Looking at the issue from another perspective, they must be happy that the finance minister has given Congress their best campaign point for the coming […]
By Arun Kumar Shrivastav Early this week, Indian writer Pankaj Mishra won the 2024 Weston International Award. The $75,000 award is given to an international non-fiction writer based outside Canada by The Writer’s Trust of Canada. “Through a compelling and essential body of work that braids memoir, philosophy, history, sociology and criticism, Mishra proves he […]
By Sushil Kutty Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar is still to recover from defections of NCP (Ajit Pawar) leaders to the NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) faction of Ajit Pawar’s uncle Sharad Pawar. Four Pune-based NCP (Ajit Pawar) leaders resigned and rejoined Sharad Pawar’s NCP and a week later the faction led by Ajit Pawar is […]
By Subrata Majumder For the first time, the Indian annual budget for 024-5 focused on the aim of manufacturing from the perspective of job creation, rather than boosting GDP. Manufacturing has been a failure in the earlier years to drive the GDP growth. The , BJP led NDA government, vowed to give a new shape […]
By Dr. Gyan Pathak G20 has made a history to agree on working together to ensure ultra-rich are taxed effectively, even after the United States dismissed the need for an international accord on the matter for now. The agreement was reached on July 25 at a meeting of G20 finance ministers in Rio de Janeiro. […]
By P. Sudhir The Indian economy is at a critical cross-road, where the GDP growth is in no way boosting the employment generation capacity. Even within the jobs created, 57.3 per cent are self-employed, 18.3 per cent are unpaid household workers and more than 45 per cent are employed in agriculture. The Production Linked Incentive […]
