On Monday, the Maharashtra government announced a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) aimed at safeguarding outdoor informal workers from extreme heat during summer months. The SOP mandates a break from 12 PM to 4 PM for workers during orange and red heat alerts, applying to all municipal corporations and councils in high-risk urban areas, including Mumbai. Maharashtra is one of the top 10 heat-vulnerable states in India, with several districts experiencing severe heat conditions. The SOP targets outdoor workers like street vendors, construction laborers, and sanitation workers, emphasizing the need for rescheduled working hours and adequate hydration facilities. Water booths will be set up at critical locations, and temporary shade structures will be installed in busy areas to provide relief. Additionally, the government plans to invest ₹184 crore in a disaster management training center in Nagpur to develop sustainable cooling strategies. The guidelines also prioritize workplace safety for women, ensuring proper lighting and transport arrangements.