TOO HOT TO HANDLE? How residents in Nagpur, India are adapting to high summer temperatures

The high summer temperatures being experienced in Nagpur, India have recently presented detrimental health effects and well-being of its residents. This study investigates the lived experiences and challenges faced by two marginalised and underrepresented groups in Nagpur—cycle rickshaw pullers and homeless people. By using a qualitative research method, a greater understanding of the challenges faced at a city level has evidenced the lack of infrastructure and city planning that could mitigate the effects of increased heat waves caused by climate change. The study analysed responses from in-depth interviews with residents to learn more about the coping strategies, health and socioeconomic effects of excessive heat on cycle rickshaw pullers and homeless people. The findings provide insights into resident’s adaptability and resilience, contributing to the increasing body of research on social justice and inclusion, human factors in challenging work contexts, and health and well-being in difficult settings. The work also analyses how heat waves have increased in their intensity and occurrence over the years and decades with projections used which should be contemplated for future city planning in India and other Global South locations. Improvements to the infrastructure, sufficient healthcare, and the creation of community-based support networks are all recommended to make urban communities more inclusive and resilient to extreme heat conditions, making sure that the most disadvantaged are not left behind. The knowledge garnered from this study will be beneficial to a more sustainable and equitable approach to managing extreme heat conditions in urban contexts, with an emphasis on the importance of including marginalized voices in the development of policy.