"Is Urban Heat a Threat to Street Vendors' Livelihoods?"

From 1992 to 2015, heat wave and extreme temperature events caused 24,223 deaths across India.

The pre-monsoon heat waves are often referred to as “silent and slow disasters,” significantly impacting people's lives, livelihoods, and efficiency. Urban informal laborers, particularly street vendors and construction workers face severe hardships during heat waves and extreme temperatures. It is crucial to track the multifaceted impacts of rising temperatures on different types of street vendors in urban environments.

From 1992 to 2015, heat wave and extreme temperature events caused 24,223 deaths across India. Vijayapura, one of India's hottest cities in Karnataka, is particularly vulnerable due to its population and substantial number of lower-income groups. The city endures intense heat, especially from the beginning of March to the end of May, exacerbating the challenges street vendors face.

Many rural migrants come to Vijayapura seeking better opportunities, driven by distress in their home regions. These migrants often become street vendors, selling daily household commodities based on their skills and capabilities. Defined by the Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending Act, 2014, a street vendor is someone who sells goods without a permanent built-up structure, using temporary static structures, mobile stalls, or head loads.

The street vendor community is among the most affected by heat waves in urban areas. They often live in informal settlements with little natural vegetation, poor-quality housing, limited access to electricity, and inadequate security, making them extremely vulnerable. During heat waves, these conditions exacerbate their difficulties, leading to increased health risks and reduced economic productivity.

Heat waves not only affect street vendors' health but also their livelihoods. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and other heat-related illnesses. These health issues reduce their ability to work efficiently, leading to lower daily earnings. Additionally, the intense heat can deter customers, further affecting their income.

To address these challenges, it is essential to implement measures that mitigate the impact of heat waves on street vendors. Providing shaded areas, access to clean drinking water, and better housing conditions can significantly improve their resilience to extreme temperatures. Furthermore, raising awareness about the health risks of heat waves and offering first aid training can help reduce casualties.

In conclusion, the lives and livelihoods of street vendors in cities like Vijayapura are severely impacted by pre-monsoon heat waves. Addressing their vulnerabilities requires a multifaceted approach, including improved infrastructure, healthcare access, and community support, to ensure their safety and well-being during extreme heat events.