Indore (Madhya Pradesh): With temperatures in the city already touching 37 degrees Celsius in March-mid, and mercury setting fiery record of 44 degrees Celsius last year, Indore district administration has started preparations to counter the sun.

To provide relief to commuters, green net covers are being laid at major intersections. The initiative, which started from Lantern Square on Sunday, is expected to expand across several key crossings in the coming weeks.

Last year also, MIC member Nandkishore Pahariya had started installing green nets from this intersection in Indore on a personal basis. After this, the Municipal Corporation installed green nets at some intersections. In this series, Pahariya planned installation of these green nets at High Court Tiraha, Malwa Mill Square this time too. People have started getting relief from this. On Sunday, drivers called it a good step and suggested installing nets at all important intersections.

Speaking about the initiative, Pahariya said, “During my visit to Rajasthan, I observed that people struggled to stand at red lights due to the scorching heat. A tent house there started installing green nets at intersections, which inspired me to do the same in Indore. Last year, I initiated this at Lantern Square, and seeing its impact, I have restarted it this year as well.”

Social organisations step in

Encouraged by the initiative, the Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC) and social organizations have stepped in, with Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargava identifying 25 major intersections where green nets will soon be set up. Key locations such as Rajwada Chowk, Banganga Sqaure, and Khajrana Square are among the planned sites.

However, there was relief from the heat on Sunday. There were also clouds in between during the day. Due to this, the day temperature fell by 2 degrees in 24 hours and was recorded at 34.8 (+1) degrees Celsius. This is 1 degree more than normal. There were three days last week when the temperature was 37 degrees or more.