Working through the heat: Stories from Mumbai’s sun-beaten workforce

Dog walker Hansraj Yadav braves the heat in Dadar East. PIC/ATUL KAMBLE

As Mumbai faces one of its harshest pre-monsoon heat spells in recent years, the city's outdoor workforce continues to operate amid soaring temperatures and high humidity. From infrastructure workers and delivery riders to traffic cops and postmen, thousands spend 8 to 12 hours daily under direct sunlight, often with little protection from the heat.

The Maharashtra government recently issued SOPs for outdoor workers, including hydration breaks and staggered work timings, as concerns over heat stress rise across urban areas. Doctors warn that prolonged exposure to heat and humidity can trigger dehydration, fatigue, heat stress, and even heatstroke, particularly among workers spending eight to 12 hours outdoors.

mid-day spoke to six professionals to learn what measures they were taking before stepping out in the blazing sun. Most said workdays now begin before sunrise, and staying hydrated is crucial.

Prem Kumar, Zomato delivery partner

Prem Kumar, Zomato delivery partner. PIC/SARTHAK MEHTA

‘I deliver food 12 to 13 hours a day for basic pay and additional target-based incentives. I start working at 8 am. Riding a bike for over 12 hours in city traffic already takes a major toll on us. Helmets and full-sleeve shirts are worn for safety, but at the same time, they make us sweat; we look forward to pickups and drops because we get a few minutes of freedom from the helmet. We cannot fall ill as we don't get leave, so it is vital to keep drinking water. We carry water bottles; not many customers or restaurants offer us water, so we refill whenever we get the opportunity'

Rohidas Medge, dabbawala

Dabbawala Rohidas Medge, who says that despite all challenges, his colleagues and he refuse to slow down. PIC/RITIKA GONDHALEKAR

‘During this heatwave, our work has become much more difficult. We travel across Mumbai carrying dozens of tiffin boxes on bicycles, handcarts, and local trains under the scorching sun. By afternoon, the metal containers become very hot, and the roads feel like they are radiating heat. We sweat continuously and have to drink water frequently to avoid dehydration, but there is very little time to rest because office workers depend on us to deliver their meals on time. Crowded trains and platforms are even more exhausting in this weather. Some of our colleagues have felt dizzy and weak, but we continue working because our customers trust us. The extreme heat is taking a toll on our health, but we cannot afford to slow down. We now start earlier in the morning, carry extra water and cover our heads. The dabbawala's motto is to keep moving, no matter how harsh the conditions are'

Hansraj Yadav, professional dog walker

Dog walker Hansraj Yadav at work in Dadar East. PIC/ATUL KAMBLE

‘By 8 am, the pavements are hot enough to burn the soles of my shoes, and the dogs start panting within minutes. In this heatwave, even a short walk is risky. I carry extra water, stop frequently in shaded areas, and avoid asphalt because it can injure paws. Some dogs refuse to step outside, while others get tired much faster than usual. As dog walkers, our job is no longer just about exercise - it's about constantly looking out for signs of heat exhaustion, such as excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy. We have had to shift most walks to very early mornings and late evenings, but even then, the humidity in Mumbai makes it difficult. Pet owners are also worried, and many ask us to cut walks short. The biggest concern is ensuring the dogs stay safe. In weather like this, a simple walk can quickly turn into a medical emergency if we are not extremely careful. For us, carrying water and sugar for extra hydration, wearing a cap, and loose cotton clothes are mandatory'

Aniket Shirke, construction worker

Aniket Shirke, construction worker. PIC/SARTHAK MEHTA

‘I work eight months of the year, setting up scaffolding for construction, paint jobs, etc. Our work ceases during the monsoon season. Bamboo tying and unfolding are mostly done during daylight hours, at heights without any shade. We climb up in airy clothes and carry water bottles. Regular hydration and head coverings are the only two tools we use to protect ourselves against the heat. When I began working in this line, I did feel uncomfortable with the intense direct sunlight, but over time, I grew accustomed to it. I have never needed any medications, but some newcomers do find it difficult, falling ill. But with time, they get used to it. We always communicate in advance to ensure sufficient arrangements are made for water at our work sites, and an individual makes rounds to ensure everyone is hydrated'

Raviraj Sathey, traffic cop

Raviraj Sathey, traffic cop. PIC/RITIKA GONDHALEKAR

‘Standing at busy junctions in Mumbai during this heatwave is extremely challenging. We spend six to eight hours on the road under direct sunlight, surrounded by hot air from vehicles and the heat rising from the asphalt. By noon, the temperature feels unbearable, and dehydration and exhaustion become major concerns. We have to remain alert at all times to manage traffic and ensure commuters' safety, even when we are feeling dizzy or fatigued. There is very little shade at most intersections, and taking frequent breaks is not always possible because traffic in Mumbai never stops. Many of us carry water bottles, wear caps and use wet towels around our necks, but the heat still takes a toll. Some officers have experienced headaches, cramps, and weakness while on duty'

Gaurav Zamare, postal worker

Gaurav Zamare delivers mail in Malad. PIC/SARTHAK MEHTA

‘I have been in this profession for seven years now; in Mumbai, for the past three years. We have to face all kinds of challenges across seasons. In the summer, the biggest challenge is Mumbai's humidity and heat. A postman walks over 5 km daily in his beat area delivering a minimum of 80-100 articles per day. In many older buildings, we have to climb stairs. Although it's a part of the job and we are accustomed to it by now, we are finding the heat more intense this year. We enter the field around 10 am, when the sun is already up and shining. Caps protect us from direct sunlight and are a part of the department-issued cotton uniform. To beat the heat, we try to stay hydrated throughout the day. That's how we get by without falling ill'

34.4°C
Max temp in Colaba on Sunday

35.6ºC
Max temp in Santacruz on Sunday