Student-led initiative ‘Mathar Chata’ provides relief to Dhaka's Rickshaw Pullers from heat

Dhaka dwellers take numerous measures to escape the sweltering heat, such as staying indoors during the day or using an umbrella under the sun. However, many underprivileged people, especially rickshaw pullers do not share this option, as their livelihood depends on working under the scorching sun. This long exposure to direct sunlight throughout the day causes numerous health risks such as dehydration, dizziness, and heat stroke. 

On 29 July, Share The Privilege Foundation, a student-led non-profit organisation aimed to alleviate poverty and hunger in Bangladesh, held a public fundraiser on social media and commenced their project "Mathar Chata" in Dhanmondi, Dhaka. 

Through this initiative, they donated 100 "umbrella caps" to rickshaw pullers. These umbrellas, which attach to the head with an elastic band, are designed to be hands-free and provide shade from direct sunlight. The organization hopes that this initiative will help the tired yet tireless rickshaw pullers to work under the sun and rain. 

The exposure to direct sunlight throughout the day causes numerous health risks such as dehydration, dizziness, and heat stroke. 

"It is very difficult for me to work in the sun and rain. This umbrella will stop my head from getting hot and wet. It will help me a lot" said one 60-year-old rickshaw puller when asked if this accessory would be helpful. He could not stop smiling once he wore the umbrella cap. This reaction was shared among the 100 underprivileged people who received the umbrella caps. 

Share The Privilege Foundation, with 75 active members currently, has previously donated over 30000 meals and 300 sweaters to disadvantaged communities in Dhaka. With several other humanitarian projects on the horizon, including "Mathar Chata 2," the student-led organization is optimistic about positively impacting Bangladesh.