Ways to Stay Cool in the Scorching Mumbai Summer
Reported by Sneha Bhagat
Mumbai, 21st March 2025: The city of dreams, known for its humid climate and coastal charm, is now battling relentless summer heat, with temperatures easily soaring past 38 degrees Celsius daily. The scorching sun, combined with high humidity, can leave even the toughest Mumbaikars feeling drained and exhausted. If you’re planning to spend time in Mumbai this summer or are looking for ways to beat the heat, here are some effective tips to stay cool.
Mumbai’s Heat Struggles: A Daily Challenge
The heat has become an inevitable part of daily life, with residents finding small yet creative ways to stay cool—whether it’s a quick beach trip after work or seeking refuge in air-conditioned malls. Despite the discomfort, the city’s unstoppable energy never fades.
Nitin More, a railway officer from Mankhurd, Mumbai, shares his experience:
“In Mumbai’s heat, staying hydrated is crucial. I always carry a bottle of cold water and take small sips throughout the day. Afternoon shifts are particularly challenging as the journey to the station means battling both heat and humidity. Recently, I had to buy an air conditioner—it was impossible to sleep otherwise. Even after sunset, the heat lingers, making evenings just as unbearable as daytime, minus the direct sunlight.”
Work-Life Disruptions Due to Heat
The relentless heat and humidity impact not just daily routines but also productivity and mental well-being. Commuting in packed local trains and navigating Mumbai’s crowded streets can be exhausting, often leading to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and even heatstroke.
Mahesh Mane, a Vikhroli resident working at Godrej, travels 40 km daily via a company bus to his workplace in the suburbs. He describes the struggle of commuting in extreme heat:
“Many of my colleagues take leave or work from home to avoid stepping out during peak heat hours. However, not all departments allow remote work. In such cases, we have to find ways to cope—taking air-conditioned buses, staying hydrated with juices and cold drinks, and even packing buttermilk and cucumber salads with our lunch. Relying solely on air conditioners is not enough; we have to take care of our bodies too.”
Families Adapting to the Heat
Homemakers, too, are taking extra precautions to protect their families from the rising temperatures. Kalpana Chavan, a homemaker from Vashi, Navi Mumbai, ensures that her family stays hydrated throughout the day.
“I make sure everyone leaves early before the heat peaks. My kids carry lemonade and kokum juice to school, especially since CBSE schools will remain open in April for bridge courses. If March is already this hot, April is bound to be worse. Staying hydrated is key to avoiding heat-related health issues.”
How Mumbaikars Are Beating the Heat
With temperatures soaring, residents are getting more resourceful in keeping cool. Many have adjusted their schedules to step out early in the morning or late in the evening, avoiding the harsh midday sun. Others rely on small yet effective hacks like cooling towels, portable fans, and misting sprays to combat the heat.
For those commuting long distances, air-conditioned buses and Metro rides are a preferred choice. Many carry chilled water bottles, electrolyte drinks, or fruit-infused beverages to stay hydrated throughout the day.
The Mumbai Spirit: Heat Can’t Stop the Hustle
Despite the oppressive heat, Mumbai continues to pulse with life. From squeezing into packed local trains to finding shade under trees or sipping coconut water from street vendors, Mumbaikars refuse to let the weather slow them down. As the summer months stretch on, one thing remains constant—the unstoppable determination of the people who call Mumbai home.
