Street Vendors at Guwahati Battle the Sun to Earn a Living

Guwahati: This summer, Guwahati is facing one of the hottest years in recent times. On May 25, the temperature reached 40.1°C, but many people said it felt like 55–60°C due to the intense heat and hot winds.

In the busy Sixmile area, the extreme weather has made daily life difficult for both the residents and the street vendors. Juice sellers, fruit sellers, and vendors working under the open sky are struggling to manage their work in this heat.

A sugarcane juice seller told us that while the heat is hard to handle, this is also the time when they earn the most. People usually prefer sugarcane juice during summer, so the heat helps boost their business. He added that no matter how sick or tired they feel, they have to stay and work because this is their peak season. Other juice and soda sellers also said that summer brings good income, and despite the discomfort, it helps them support their families.

However, not all vendors benefit. Those selling clothes, toys, or household items on the roadside said that customers rarely stop by during the day. Many people avoid shopping in the afternoon because of the unbearable heat, which leads to fewer sales and financial losses. Some vendors said they feel dizzy or weak while working for long hours under the sun, but they continue because they have no other option.

People passing through Sixmile also shared their concerns. Many said they don’t like going out during the day unless it’s absolutely necessary. One person mentioned that the temperature in Guwahati seems to rise every year, making even small tasks difficult in the heat. Office-goers and service workers also said that they have no choice but to face the heat and continue their daily routine.

Magic vehicle drivers who transport passengers said they are also facing problems. Passenger numbers have dropped because most people prefer staying indoors. Only regular office and school passengers still use the service. Some drivers said that people now prefer private vehicles or the new air-conditioned Green city buses to avoid the discomfort of public transport in such weather.

With temperatures rising each year, the summer heat is becoming a serious concern for the people of Guwahati. Those who work outdoors continue to face the sun daily, hoping for cooler days ahead and some relief from the harsh weather conditions.