Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, May 1: In a significant move to ensure the welfare of labourers amid the soaring summer temperatures, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Thursday announced a mandatory three-hour 'heat break' for construction workers between 12 noon and 3 pm.
Interacting with workers during a Labour Day event in Karol Bagh, CM Gupta assured that the BJP-led governments at the Centre and in Delhi are fully committed to safeguarding the rights and wellbeing of the labour force. The event, organised by the Department of Labour, honoured workers for their invaluable contribution to the city's development.
"Our government has instructed all employers to provide a mid-day heat break to protect labourers from the intense summer heat," CM Gupta said. She also announced that health check-ups for workers and their families would be conducted at construction sites.
Special emphasis has been placed on supporting women workers, with the Delhi government planning to establish 500 crèches across the capital. “This will help working mothers ensure their children are safe and well cared for,” she added.
To further combat heat-related stress, Gupta said 3,000 water coolers would be installed at public places and near construction sites. The chief minister also highlighted that the government had increased the minimum wages for workers ahead of Labour Day, reinforcing its commitment to fair compensation.
She stressed that the government was also working towards better health and education opportunities for the children of labourers.
Taking to social media platform X, CM Gupta wrote, “The contribution of our labourer brothers and sisters in India’s development is unmatched. Your hard work drives the chariot of progress. Let us all pledge to work continuously for the respect and rights of our workers.”
Labour Minister Kapil Mishra, also present at the event, said Labour Day celebrations were being held in the capital after a gap of seven years. “Despite having the funds, the previous government failed to honor workers,” he remarked.