India’s Hottest District Turns Off Traffic Lights to Shield Commuters From Blistering 47.6°C Heat
India’s Hottest District Turns Off Traffic Lights to Shield Commuters From Blistering 47.6°C Heat BANDA, UTTAR PRADESH — As a brutal, unrelenting heatwave tightens its grip across northern India, authorities in the Banda district have taken an unprecedented step to protect citizens: turning off automated traffic signals during the peak afternoon hours. The unusual directive aims to prevent commuters on two-wheelers and open vehicles from being forced to stand stationary at intersections under direct, punishing sunlight. "Free Flow" Mode Enforced During Peak Sun Hours Banda recently emerged as the hottest location in the country, with temperatures hitting a staggering 47.6°C. With local markets and streets completely deserted by 10:00 AM as residents flee indoors, those who must travel during the midday peak face dangerous levels of exposure. To mitigate heatstroke risks, the district administration has switched major intersections to a "free flow" traffic s...