By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: Amid intense summer heat, gig workers who spend long hours on the streets in Patna are set to receive much-needed relief. The Patna Municipal Corporation is constructing two air-conditioned lounges near Gandhi Maidan Gate No. 4 and Income Tax Golambar.
The initiative has been launched under the direction of Municipal Commissioner Yashpal Meena, with construction being carried out by Patna Smart City Limited.
The main structure of both shelters has already been completed, and finishing work is currently progressing at a rapid pace. Officials have stated that the basic construction will be completed within the next four days. This will be followed by the installation of air-conditioning units, chairs, and other essential facilities. The lounges are expected to open to the public and gig workers from Monday.
Each lounge will have seating capacity for around 15 people, allowing up to 30 individuals to rest comfortably at the two centres at any given time. Gig workers will be able to sit and relax free of cost. Facilities such as mobile charging points and access to chilled drinking water will also be provided.
Under the civic body’s plan, members of self-help groups, known as Jeevika Didis, will also be associated with these centres. They will offer traditional summer drinks such as buttermilk and aam panna at highly affordable prices, helping workers cope with the heat.
Gandhi Maidan and Income Tax Golambar are among the busiest areas in the city, witnessing heavy movement of delivery personnel and other gig workers every day. Until now, there has been no proper arrangement for them to sit or rest, forcing many to spend time by the roadside or under trees.
This initiative by the municipal corporation is being seen as a significant step towards addressing this long-standing issue and improving working conditions for gig workers in the city.
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