As temperatures continue to rise in Qatar, the importance of protecting oneself and loved ones from the dangers of heat stress becomes paramount.
In light of this, the Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF Qatar) took a proactive step by organising a Heat Stress Awareness session on August 2 at the ICBF Kanjani Hall. The event saw participation of around 150 workers from various labour camps, alongside other community members, all eager to learn about staying safe and healthy during the harsh summer months.
The session was expertly coordinated by ICBF General Secretary Varkey Boban, who stressed the critical importance of early detection and prevention of heat stress symptoms. Understanding the signs of heat stress, he explained, could make the difference between a minor health issue and a serious medical emergency.
ICBF President Shanavas Bava further emphasised the significance of this awareness program, particularly during this peak summer season. He noted that the initiative is part of ICBF’s ongoing 40th Anniversary celebrations, which have been marked by a series of community-focused events. President Bava reiterated ICBF’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of the working-class members of the community, whom he referred to as the backbone of society.
The session’s Chief Guest, Assistant Secretary Officer (ASO) from the Labor Department of the Indian Embassy, Jaya Ganesh Bharadwaj, commended ICBF for its active involvement in addressing community issues and enhancing the well-being of its members.
He underscored the importance of such community initiatives in creating a safer and healthier environment, particularly for those most vulnerable to the effects of extreme temperatures.
The awareness session was conducted by Sushant Savardekar, the SHEQ (Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality) Manager at Almana Group Insulation Engineering Company. With his extensive experience in safety management, Savardekar provided attendees with practical and invaluable insights into preventing heat stress and managing health risks associated with extreme temperatures.
His session covered key strategies such as proper hydration, recognising the early symptoms of heat stress, and implementing safe work practices to mitigate risk.
The gathering was warmly welcomed by ICBF Head of Fishermen Welfare, Shankar Goud, who set the tone for the event by acknowledging the importance of the session for the attendees. The event concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by ICBF Secretary T K Muhamed Kunhi, who thanked the participants, organisers, and community leaders for their contribution to the success of the event.
The event was meticulously organised by ICBF Managing Committee member Neelambari Sushant and Advisory Council Member T Ramaselvam, whose efforts ensured smooth proceedings and high engagement from the
attendees.
The session was also graced by the presence of several other notable community figures, including ICC Secretary Abraham Joseph, ISC Managing Committee member Deepak Chukkala, and other leaders from associated organisations.
Through initiatives like the Heat Stress Awareness session, ICBF continues to demonstrate its dedication to promoting health and well-being within the Indian community in
Qatar.
This event, reflecting the organization’s ongoing commitment to serving the Indian diaspora, was not only a testament to ICBF’s leadership but also a call to action for continued vigilance during the challenging summer months.