HYDERABAD: With the monsoon season looming, workers of the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) express concerns over the hazardous conditions they face while undertaking essential tasks in the city. Despite their crucial role in managing drainage systems and mitigating waterlogging, the workers lament the lack of adequate safety measures and support from authorities, putting their health and well-being at risk.
Highlighting the precarious nature of their work, GHMC workers emphasize the absence of essential safety gear, including helmets, masks, boots, gloves, and uniforms. This deficiency in basic provisions exposes them to unhygienic environments filled with slush and waste, increasing the likelihood of infections and health complications such as skin diseases and respiratory ailments. A GHMC union representative voiced grievances regarding the sporadic distribution of safety equipment, citing instances where workers receive protective gear only once every three years. Despite repeated appeals to higher authorities, the persistent lack of timely provisions perpetuates the workers’ vulnerability to occupational hazards.
In addition to safety concerns, GHMC workers underscore the need for accessible medical treatment and regular health check-ups to address the health risks associated with their profession. With the onset of the monsoon, the prevalence of illnesses among sanitation workers escalates, yet many are unable to afford time off due to financial constraints, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive healthcare support. Moreover, inadequate housing exacerbates the workers’ predicament, as many reside in flood-prone areas with insufficient living conditions. Despite assurances of improving their circumstances, workers continue to contend with substandard accommodations, further compromising their health and safety.
As GHMC workers strive to uphold their responsibilities amidst challenging conditions, there is a pressing call for proactive measures to safeguard their well-being. Authorities must prioritize the provision of essential safety equipment, establish regular health camps, and address housing deficiencies to mitigate the occupational risks faced by sanitation workers. With the monsoon season approaching, concerted efforts are needed to ensure the welfare and dignity of GHMC workers, reaffirming the imperative of prioritizing their safety and health in the municipal agenda.
