Struggles in the scorching heat: Unsung heroes of extreme temperatures

Lokmat News Network

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

With temperatures hovering between 41 and 43.4°C, the city is in the grip of an intense heatwave. While many avoid stepping out, several citizens continue to toil under the blazing sun to earn a living and fulfil their responsibilities.

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Burning for survival

At around 1.30 pm on Jalna Road, scrap collector Sadik Shaikh was seen pulling a heavily loaded handcart without any protection from the sun. Earning Rs 200 to 300 a day, he said enduring the heat is a necessity for survival.

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Duty above discomfort

At Akashvani signal, traffic policeman Subhash Saywar managed traffic amid fumes and sweltering conditions. He said the heat leads to nausea, loss of appetite and burning sensations in the feet at night, yet duty cannot pause for weather.

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25 Years of labour

In Mondha Square, labourer Shaikh Taher carried iron rods and logs despite the oppressive heat. For daily wages of Rs 200 to 300, he has continued this physically demanding work for 25 years, stating that survival leaves little room for complaint.

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Scorched but self-reliant

Meanwhile, 65-year-old Yashodabai Chavan of Ambikanagar has been herding goats for three decades. Walking under the sun from 11 am to 4 pm, she continues to work despite physical strain and lack of support from her children, saying dignity comes only through effort.