Indians give eateries cold shoulder amid head-spinning heat

Extreme heatwave conditions across India have significantly impacted restaurants, pubs, and bars, leading to a sharp decline in sales and footfalls, with some outlets reporting up to a 40% decrease. Al fresco dining and high street locations are worst affected, especially during lunch hours, which are seeing a notable drop in business. The heatwave, with temperatures exceeding 50 degrees Celsius in some places, has led people to avoid outdoor dining, impacting sales till about 6 pm.