Delhi Heatwave: LG directs paid break for labourers, water pitchers at bus stands

Delhi Lt Governor V K Saxena on Wednesday directed that laborers at construction sites be given a paid break from 12 noon to 3 pm due to the heatwave conditions, with temperatures reaching up to 50 degrees Celsius in several areas.

This three-hour break has been implemented by the Delhi Development Authority since May 20 and will continue until temperatures drop below 40 degrees Celsius.

The LG instructed the DDA on May 20 to ensure the provision of water and coconut water for laborers at construction sites to keep them hydrated, officials said.

He has also directed the chief secretary to call an immediate meeting with officers from the PWD, DJB, I&FC, MCD, NDMC, Power department, and DUSIB to issue necessary directions for protecting laborers and supervisory staff from extreme heat conditions.

Additionally, he has ordered the arrangement of earthen pots with drinking water at bus queue shelters for bus passengers, the deployment of tankers with treated water from STPs for road sprinkling, and the activation of water sprinklers at high-rise buildings and roads to tackle pollution and provide relief to the public. (With inputs from PTI)