Under the scorching heat of India's summer sun, labourers in Delhi endure grueling conditions as they toil on construction sites and highways. Banwari Singh, a 40-year-old construction worker, describes handling iron bars that often become "red hot" under the blazing sun. Last Sunday, temperatures soared to 47.8 degrees Celsius (118 degrees Fahrenheit) in Najafgarh, an area on the outskirts of New Delhi, where Singh works.
"This is among the hottest it has been in this area," Singh remarks, highlighting the severity of the heatwave. Despite the challenging conditions, Singh and his fellow labourers press on, driven by the necessity to earn a livelihood. With daily wages ranging from 500 to 700 rupees ($6-$8.4), they have little choice but to continue working, even as some fall ill due to the extreme heat.
The ongoing heatwave, exacerbated by climate change, has led to the closure of schools in Delhi, and voters in the national election face the daunting task of waiting in line under the sweltering sun. To cope with the heat, workers regularly douse themselves with water and purchase cool drinks from nearby shops. Vinay Sahani, the deputy project manager, ensures that water and sometimes lemonade are provided to workers, urging them to rest during peak temperatures. Despite these measures, Sumit Goswami, a 21-year-old labourer, had to take time off due to a heat-related illness, reflecting the extreme conditions faced by workers.
As temperatures continue to rise, Delhi's labourers persevere, driven by the need to support their families despite the challenges posed by the relentless heat.