Bandh, searing temp shuts Patiala down

A record maximum temperature of 46 degree Celsius this season and Bharat bandh ensured that normal life was thrown out of gear in Patiala city today. Roads wore a deserted look in the afternoon as shops were closed, and most of the residents preferred to stay indoors.

A record maximum temperature of 46 degree Celsius this season and Bharat bandh ensured that normal life was thrown out of gear in Patiala city on Thursday. Roads wore a deserted look in the afternoon as shops were closed, and most of the residents preferred to stay indoors.

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Many commuters had covered their faces to survive the scorching heat. Shopkeepers also organised chilled water 'chhabeel' at many places in different markets.

The city had recorded a 45.1 degree Celsius temperature on Wednesday. The minimum temperature, at 28 degree Celsius, also gave no relief.

The meteorological department's forecast for the coming days offered no solace. The temperature is likely to go further up, it claimed.

Students heaved a sigh of relief with their summer vacations beginning today. In fact, owing to the heat wave many schools witnessed a thin attendance on Thursday.

No such respite awaits government employees. "The government should do something about it. All
departments should get at least 15-days holiday in June. We are finding it difficult to cope with the blistering sun," suggested a government employee.