“Gujarat Hardlook: Heatwave hits Workers, Traffic Cops worst”

Even as Gujarat has been grappling with above-average temperatures since April, the punishing heatwave reared its ugly head in the state last month. As per the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the state in May recorded one of the longest heatwave spells in recent years…

In Vadodara, at least seven heatwave-linked deaths were reported between May 22 and 30, including that of a 51-year-old assistant sub-inspector. He was suspected to have died due to a heat stroke. In Ahmedabad, Salman Sheikh (48), an auto rickshaw driver, showed symptoms of dehydration and high fever before he died at the civil hospital on May 24. The same day, Sanjay (55), who worked at a construction site, died of heat-related symptoms…

The government has largely not regulated working hours or conditions for large sections of the labour force who are exposed to direct heat despite the soaring temperatures…

The government has largely not regulated working hours or conditions for large sections of the labour force who are exposed to direct heat despite the soaring temperatures…

… the circular left a grey area, and did not cover a significant chunk of workers in the unorganised sector who are otherwise exposed to extreme heat…

Ramesh Shrivastav, general secretary of Gujarat Majur Adhikar Manch, a registered trade union, said that the government’s circular is insufficient, especially when it comes to the unorganised labour sector. ..