Power stations face coal shortages while burning landfill chokes residents in New Delhi

AFPinDelhiThu 28 Apr 2022 16.36 EDT

Millions sweltered in a dangerous early summer heatwave acrossIndiaand Pakistan that has led to power and water shortages as annual furnace-like temperatures hit South Asia.

In New Delhi, a burning rubbish dump choked residents for a third day on Thursday as temperatures crossed 45C (113F) in parts of the region. Forecasters warn it will get even hotter this weekend.

Heatwaves have killed more than 6,500 people inIndiasince 2010, and scientists say climate change is making them harsher and more frequent across South Asia.

“This is the first time I’ve seen such horrible weather in April. Usually, we’re prepared for this in May and onwards,” said 30-year-old Delhi housewife Somya Mehra, as…