Heat wave disrupts India’s wheat output, power supply

Many areas in India are experiencing a severe heatwave that is straining the power supply and disrupting the production of wheat. India is the world’s second-largest wheat producer.

The heatwave started in March. Temperatures soared to as high as 49 degrees Celsius on Wednesday in parts of New Delhi and the northern states. No relief is expected anytime soon.

Wheat farmers are especially vulnerable owing to the shortage of water. The government banned exports of wheat last week, adding to inflation in global prices.

India’s wheat exports were expected to cross 10 million tons this year. That was supposed to help ease a global shortage caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Another challenge is the sharp rise in demand for fuel and electricity. Power stations are struggling with a lack of coal, as more than 70% of the country’s electricity generation relies on coal. Some states have been subject to power cuts due to high domestic prices.

Weather experts say this alarming situation is raising concerns that the wheat harvest could be delayed, food could be damaged, and industrial activities slowed.