It’s surprising how rare it is to come by a kind stranger. A smile exchanged, a nod every now and then, perhaps a greeting — physical exchanges with little emotion behind them. But here’s a resident of Mumbai who has gone out of his way to help the city’s denizens beat the heat, in his own little way. Santosh Gaikwad is no stranger to social work, he has been doing the same for years, through his occupation itself.

Located in Ghansoli, he fitted his auto rickshaw with a 5-litre water dispenser, in the back. It is connected to a tap under the fare meter, from which he offers all his customers cold drinking water, to quench their thirst. In a report by TOI, he says, “I gave shape to this concept on my own. I keep the tank covered with wet gunny bags to keep the water cool. I also add ice cubes to the water. Being a social worker, it is my duty to make people happy with whatever little is possible for me. This whole exercise does not cost me much.”

Prior to this, Santosh Gaikwad has also received much appreciation for his gesture towards physically challenged people — rickshaw rides with no charges applicable whatsoever. And on International Women’s Day, he managed to convince around 50 other rickshaw drivers, to give all women passengers a free ride, to show their respect towards women. Well, Santosh Gaikwad, you definitely have our respect for being a good samaritan at heart! We could use more of you around Mumbai, for sure.

Feature Image Credit — YouTube