New Delhi
In response to Delhi’s intense heat wave, with temperatures nearing 50 degrees Celsius in some areas, Lt Governor V K Saxena issued an order on Wednesday. This directive mandates a paid break for construction workers from 12 noon to 3 pm. This measure has been effective at all Delhi Development Authority construction sites since May 20 and will continue until temperatures drop below 40 degrees Celsius.
On May 20, the LG also directed the DDA to ensure that construction workers have access to adequate water and coconut water to stay hydrated. Additionally, the LG instructed the chief secretary to convene a meeting with officers from various departments, including PWD, DJB, I&FC, MCD, NDMC, Power department, and DUSIB. The purpose of this meeting is to issue necessary instructions to protect workers and supervisory staff from the extreme heat.
To provide relief to bus passengers, the LG has ordered the placement of earthen pots filled with drinking water at bus queue shelters. Furthermore, tankers containing treated water from Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) will be used to sprinkle water on the roads to reduce pollution.
Additionally, the LG has activated water sprinklers installed at high-rise buildings and along the roads to help lower pollution levels and offer respite to the city’s residents, officials added.
