What are the key housing factors trapping heat in Delhi homes?

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Key Housing Factors Trapping Heat in Delhi Homes

Homes in Delhi, particularly in densely populated areas like Sundar Nagri, are significantly impacted by structural factors that trap heat, leading to dangerously high indoor temperatures. These conditions are exacerbated by the design of many dwellings, which lack adequate ventilation.
Inadequate Ventilation in One-Room Houses

Many of the residences examined, such as the one-room house occupied by Durga Devi, are constructed with concrete walls and low roofs. This architectural design inherently limits the exchange of air, preventing the dissipation of heat that accumulates during the day. The absence of effective ventilation systems means that the heat absorbed by the building materials is retained.
Heat Retention by Building Materials

The concrete walls and low roofs are primary contributors to the heat retention issue. During daylight hours, these materials absorb solar radiation and ambient heat. As evening approaches and outdoor temperatures begin to fall, the stored heat within the walls and roof is released slowly into the interior spaces. This continuous release of heat prevents indoor environments from cooling down, maintaining oppressive temperatures throughout the night.
Impact on Indoor Night-time Temperatures

The combination of poor ventilation and heat-retaining materials results in indoor temperatures that remain dangerously high, even after sunset. In some documented cases, such as within Durga Devi's bedroom in Sundar Nagri, temperatures have been recorded as high as 45°C at night. This persistent heat significantly impacts the habitability and safety of these homes, offering residents no respite from the sweltering summer conditions.

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What are the key housing factors trapping heat in Delhi homes?

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