Severe Heatwave in Delhi Poses Challenges for Informal Workers
• Delhi is currently experiencing a severe heatwave, with temperatures rising to levels that are making daily life increasingly difficult for the city's informal workforce.
• According to a report by BBC, many workers, including rickshaw pullers and domestic helpers, are struggling to cope with the extreme heat.
• The majority of these workers lack access to air conditioning or other cooling measures, relying instead on basic methods such as drinking salted water, covering their heads, or adjusting their work hours to avoid the peak afternoon sun.
Why It's Important?
The heatwave is disproportionately affecting Delhi's informal workforce, which constitutes nearly 90% of India's labor market. These workers, often without contracts or job security, depend on outdoor jobs for their livelihood. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat is leading to health issues such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. For instance, a 40-year-old factory worker reported being bedridden for days due to heat-related illness. Additionally, the harsh conditions are making it increasingly difficult for workers like rickshaw pullers to sustain their daily routines, with some describing the physical toll as unbearable. The lack of adequate cooling infrastructure exacerbates these risks.
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