Heavy rainfall in Bengaluru has led to severe flooding, prompting civic workers to work tirelessly to unclog drains and pump out stagnant water. However, a recent viral video depicting workers clearing clogged drains by hand has sparked outrage and highlighted unsafe working conditions.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of more heavy rain for Bengaluru and surrounding districts until October 18. As the downpour continues, city personnel are battling to ease traffic congestion caused by water accumulation.
A video shared by the Bengaluru Traffic Police shows two workers on their hands and knees, manually cleaning drains near Bellandur, close to the Microsoft office. The clip quickly gained traction on social media, with users criticizing the lack of safety gear provided to these essential workers.
Comments flooded in, with one user tagging Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D Shivakumar, demanding better equipment for the workers. “Civic workers need shoes, a torch, a jacket, and a helmet. These are basic things for their safety,” the user wrote. Another user echoed this sentiment, stating, “This is shameful. A world-class city must provide a safe working environment.”
Medical professionals also weighed in, warning that such unsafe methods could lead to health issues like leptospirosis, which can cause severe complications, including kidney damage and even death. “Brand Bangalore has no funds to meet basic necessities for civic workers; disgusting & pity,” remarked one user.
Despite the overwhelming support for enhanced safety measures, some comments suggested that workers often choose not to use available safety equipment. “They would have been provided all that. Workers don’t wear them. Need to be educated,” stated one user, while another added that the discomfort of wearing gloves and shoes in the heat deters them from using proper gear.
As the city grapples with flooding and its impact, the need for improved safety protocols and working conditions for civic workers has become increasingly urgent, emphasizing the balance between essential services and the welfare of those who provide them.
Sources By Agencies
