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Invisible Threat: Informal Workers Bear Pollution's Brunt
16 Dec
Summary
- Informal workers like e-rickshaw drivers and vendors are exposed to severe pollution.
- Government advisories to work from home offer no protection to daily wage earners.
- Workers continue to brave hazardous air for daily survival and family needs.
In Delhi, thousands of informal workers, like e-rickshaw driver Monu Patel and snack vendor Ram Niwas, face severe air pollution daily. With AQI readings in the 'Severe' category, they experience breathing difficulties and eye irritation but cannot afford to stop working.
Government advisories urging work-from-home and reduced office attendance offer no solace to these individuals. Their livelihoods depend on being on the streets, driving, selling, or collecting waste, exposing them to hazardous air conditions that have become a public health emergency.
For families like Krishan Pal's and Tara's, working outdoors is a necessity for survival, feeding their families and educating children. Despite the health risks, they continue their essential services, as finding alternative employment or returning to their hometowns is not feasible.
