Nepal’s invisible heat crisis is burning its informal workers
Summary
Informal workers in Nepal, especially in the construction sector, are increasingly affected by extreme heat due to rising temperatures caused by climate change. Despite their significant contribution to the urban economy, informal sector workers face severe health and work hazards from continuous exposure to high temperatures and lack policy protection.
Key Points
- Informal sector workers in Nepal endure extreme heat while working outdoors, impacting their health and safety.
- Nepal has experienced a rise in excessively hot days, with temperatures exceeding 40°C, particularly in the Terai region.
- Climate change, driven by global greenhouse gas emissions, is increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme heat events.
- Current policies inadequately address the specific vulnerabilities of informal workers to extreme heat, necessitating targeted interventions and infrastructure improvements.
