Heatwave: As mercury rises in Delhi, survival comes before safety for informal workers

In Delhi, India, extreme heat has become a daily struggle for millions of informal workers who rely on outdoor jobs. Harish Chandra, a 52-year-old cycle-rickshaw driver, explains that the intense summer temperatures make it difficult to work and earn money. Mohammad Umar, a 50-year-old tuk-tuk driver, also struggles with heat exhaustion, losing income when he has to stay home. Dr Satish Koul, a principal director of internal medicine at Fortis Hospital Gurgaon, warns that prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to dehydration and other health problems. The World Health Organization's former chief scientist, Dr Soumya Swaminathan, highlights the threat of heatwaves to both lives and livelihoods as temperatures approach "human tolerability." Experts emphasize the need for better cooling centers, public advisories, and awareness campaigns to address the impact of extreme heat on India's informal workforce.