Extreme Heat Takes Toll on Daily Wage Workers in India
Delhi and Telangana are experiencing severe heatwaves, with temperatures exceeding 45°C. In Delhi, nearly 90% of the workforce is informal, relying on outdoor jobs for daily wages. Workers like Harish Chandra and Mohammad Umar report exhaustion and health risks from prolonged exposure. In Telangana, Bhadradri Kothagudem recorded a maximum temperature of 46.3°C, leading to suspected heatstroke deaths. Reports indicate at least 48 suspected heat-related fatalities this summer. The Telangana Heatwave Action Plan identifies outdoor workers as particularly vulnerable. Despite government advisories urging hydration and caution, many workers continue to toil in oppressive conditions, as stopping work is not an option for survival.
Published 2 days ago • 29 May 2026, 05:26 AM IST