Experts are asking for urgent steps to protect informal workers from extreme heat.
These steps include paid heat leave, free water ATMs near labour areas, and a legal “right to cool.”
Over 80% of Delhi’s informal workers (street vendors, labourers, ragpickers) face health risks and income loss; women are hit harder.
A Greenpeace report found 61% of vendors lost 40%+ income, and 75% lacked cooling access during heatwaves.
Heat-related illnesses like dehydration, heatstroke, and kidney damage are increasing.
The India Meteorological Department predicts a hotter-than-normal summer with more heatwave days in many northern and central states.
With 82% of working women in informal jobs, experts call for gender-sensitive urban planning to ensure safe, accessible public facilities.
Experts propose recognizing the "right to cool" under Article 21, ensuring shaded areas, water, and thermal comfort as basic rights.
Suggested quick solutions:
Shaded canopies in busy areas.
Free water ATMs near labour hubs.
Mobile cooling stations with fans and first aid.
Enforceable heat action plans in cities.
Paid time off on extreme heat days.
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