This time Noida, in fact, complete North India is miserable in this scorching heat. The temperature has soared unbearably high and most of the time, we are indoors under the fan or in AC rooms. What about the people who have no choice but have to work outside? The security guards, housekeeping staff, laundry workers, car cleaners, gardeners, etc., are most vulnerable to the intense heat, especially during the day. The summer temperatures are at record highs and have left everyone feeling fatigued, sweaty, and run down. We feel sorry for our staff but can’t do anything about it. With no improvement in the weather conditions, they have to work outdoors to earn their livelihood. The xxx Management Committee has restricted the staff working timings and ensured they are not exposed too much under the direct sun. Shady areas have been earmarked for them for resting and having meals. Security guards are provided with fixed umbrellas and coolers with cold water dispensers. The Management came up with the novel idea of helping our staff by serving cold beverages. This gives relief from the hot, scorching sun. The main purpose of these beverages in this hot weather is to combat dehydration, relieve heat and cool down the body. Though water is the utmost important drink to quench thirst, summer beverages not only satisfy thirst but also provide a quick energy boost. Supplying chilled drinks by the residents is a solace in this sweltering heat. This suggestion of serving cold drinks was liked by everyone. A message was circulated in a WhatsApp group in mid-May. In no time, ladies came up and volunteered to serve beverages to our workers. There are about 25 workers in total. Daily from May till the end of June, morning and late afternoon drinks were served to our staff. The set timings were 11:30 am and 3:30 pm. Drinks like Limca, Nimbus, Amul Masti buttermilk, Amul sweet Lassi, Mother Dairy Tarka Chach, juices, Kachi Lassi, Rooh Afza, etc., were being given. Refreshments like samosas, biscuits, ice cream, cream rolls were also served. A roster was planned so that daily the staff gets these soft drinks and refreshments. Daily reminders were sent to the lady supplying drinks that day and also to the person in charge of collection. Some enthusiastic ladies offered to serve 2 or more than 2 times. Steel glasses were supplied from the office, and the cold drinks were collected from each flat and distributed near the office at the assigned time. The staff on their own came at the set timings to help themselves. This distribution worked very smoothly, and not a single day was missed when the staff did not get their refreshing drinks. This caring gesture has made the staff happy and has brought a broad smile to their faces. The act of service by our Ram Vihar residents is like “Putting others before self and embracing modesty and nurturing generosity.”
