Paper short abstract:

Cities signified hope and progress; however, due to climate change and extreme heat, they appear to be concrete heat jungles preying upon the lives citizens. Delivery riders in cities are one integral vulnerable group whose voices must heard if we are to establish equitable and sustainable cities.

Paper long abstract:

In recent times, there has been a significant surge in the gig economy in Pakistan, driven by technological innovation and consumerism. The race to deliver items and edibles across distances in short spans of time is a phenomenon we have grown much accustomed to. Millions of workers look to this “platformisation” of work as a promise of economic growth coupled with flexibility and convenience. While this may be true, it has also compounded the existing vulnerabilities of socio-economically disadvantaged workers, aiming to make a living. 2% of Pakistan’s population is employed in gig work, a majority of as delivery riders, exposed to extreme heat and soaring temperatures with no protection. One of the most vulnerable groups in the face of climate change, delivery workers are classified as informal workers, deprived of social protection and other benefits. While cities, such as the city of Karachi, represent the hope of a better livelihood, they are also spaces where marginalization and injustice play out. This paper aims to draw upon the daily experiences of delivery riders in the city of Karachi and assess the impacts of extreme heat in a city where workers must strive to perform despite high temperatures and urban heat island effects. Additionally, the paper presents policy options and recommendations to ensure that every voice is heard to pave the way towards building sustainable and liveable cities.