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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Rajesh Kumar Singh,Sibi Arasu and Deepak Sharma

What living in one of the world’s hottest towns feels like

A woman cools herself off with an ice pack during a heat wave in Banda, northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, Sunday, June 21, 2026 - (AP Photo/Rajesh Kumar Singh)

Relentless heat at all hours, even through the night, coupled with prolonged electricity outages means basic fans are often useless for residents of Banda, northern India.

Their daily existence is a constant battle against the elements, as they seek relief through desperate measures like being hosed down or sleeping outdoors.

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