Amid the relentless heatwave sweeping across the region, daily wage workers continue to brave extreme temperatures to earn a livelihood and keep essential public infrastructure and informal economies running. From construction sites and expressway projects to scrap collection and roadside kitchens, their stories reflect resilience, hardship and the daily struggle to cope with scorching conditions.
Delhi-Meerut Expressway
Mohan rests inside a concrete pipe while working on the Delhi-Meerut Expressway drainage system amid the scorching heatwave. The daily wager from Etawah says the heat is unbearable, yet he continues to work for a public cause, which keeps him motivated.
Indirapuram, Ghaziabad
At Patparganj, Salman works under the blazing sun for a central government road infrastructure project. Unfazed by the extreme weather, the daily wage labourer says survival on the streets leaves little room to complain about heat or cold.
Patparganj
Soni and Deepak carry sacks of scrap through the sweltering afternoon heat. Even as temperatures soar, Soni joins her husband in collecting scrap while leaving their child at home to cope with the harsh conditions.
Near Rajghat
Munna Mustaq cooks a roadside meal for fellow workers while taking shelter from the intense heatwave. The van owner from Murad Nagar says enduring the unbearable heat is part of life as he works tirelessly to support his family.
These workers represent thousands who keep the city functioning under extreme conditions. Their stories highlight the urgent need for better heat protection measures and social support for informal labourers.
