BMC & CFAR empower sanitation workers with PPE, dignity
Bhubaneswar(02/11/2024): The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) and Centre for Advocacy and Research (CFAR) held a PPE Kit distribution and orientation program today at the IRC Village Urban Primary Health Centre (UPHC) in Bhubaneswar to enhance the safety and dignity of core sanitation workers.
The event, marking the second day of distribution, gathered 52 sanitation workers from various wards along with representatives from government, civil society, and private organizations dedicated to affirming the right of sanitary workers to dignity and safety. In his speech, Suvendu Kumar Sahoo, Additional Commissioner, stressed, “Your safety is our priority!” He highlighted the importance of safety equipment for sanitation workers and the BMC's commitment to the NAMSTE scheme, which aims to eliminate direct contact with human waste, ensure cleaning operations use safety devices, and provide skills training for sanitation work.
He urged workers to consistently use the provided safety gear and noted recent improvements in remuneration, health insurance, and regular health check-ups.
BMC's partnership with Hi-tech Medical College facilitates health screenings, while collaboration with Odisha State Cooperative Bank aims to offer loan facilities to workers.
“CFAR has been instrumental in supporting sanitation workers,” he added. Jogal Nayak, Project Manager at CFAR, referred to sanitation workers as ambassadors of sanitation, encouraging them to educate the public about wastewater management and its impact on climate change.
He emphasized that their role lies in promoting safe water and sanitation practices. Meera Parida, Founder of SAKHA, praised the workers for their commitment and urged them to prioritize safety.
She recognized BMC’s efforts to uphold the rights and dignity of sanitation workers and stressed the importance of safe work practices.
“Sanitation work is honorable and essential; using safety gear ensures dignity,” she stated. Ward Corporator Subhranshu Sekhar Pattnaik from Ward 27 reflected on the emphasis on mechanized cleaning, noting the Supreme Court's directive to abolish manual scavenging.
"Our city remains clean because of your dedication.
By staying safe, you protect not only yourselves but also your families,” he remarked. Rani Kinner, representing the Sexual and Gender Minority community and a cesspool vehicle operator, shared her experience with Sweekruti SHG, a sanitation group supported by CFAR since 2018.
She highlighted the group's global recognition and encouraged workers to use protective gear to mitigate health risks.
“Our journey reflects resilience and commitment to sanitation.
We urge everyone to prioritize safety,” she added. Dr.Gulnaz Usman, Medical Officer at UPHC, reinforced health and hygiene practices by demonstrating handwashing techniques and encouraging workers to carry first aid kits for immediate health needs.
She also urged regular health check-ups at the city’s 22 Urban Primary Health Centres (UPHCs) and four Community Health Centres (CHCs). Jahrana Nayak from Pata Dei Basti, Ward 5, expressed that the training and refresher courses on safety equipment have made them skilled workers, giving them a special identity.
Bijaya Behera shared that previously, they worked in hazardous conditions at night and faced discrimination but now feel confident and respected while working professionally with PPE. Naresh Nayak called for an end to the social stigma surrounding sanitation workers, emphasizing their crucial role in maintaining a clean and safe environment.
Ms.
Bharati Das reflected on past practices, stating, "We once worked without precautions, but now our priority is safety and dignity.
Wearing PPE earns us respect and recognition." The event highlighted BMC and CFAR’s commitment to improving workplace safety and social respect for sanitation workers, acknowledging their vital role in public health and sanitation.
