Sewer Cleaning Deaths Raise Concerns
377 Deaths in Sewer Cleaning Over 5 Years, Claims Minister
New Delhi: Over the past five years, a total of 377 people have tragically died while engaging in the hazardous cleaning of sewers and septic tanks, according to Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale. He provided this information to the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, emphasizing that despite these deaths, there is no official report of manual scavenging practices in the country.
Sewer Cleaning Fatalities from 2019 to 2023
In response to a question in the House, Athawale detailed the fatalities associated with sewer and septic tank cleaning. According to the data he presented:
- 2018: 76 deaths
- 2019: 133 deaths
- 2020: 35 deaths
- 2021: 66 deaths
- 2022: 84 deaths
- 2023: 49 deaths (up to November 20)
These figures highlight a significant and ongoing risk for sanitation workers involved in hazardous cleaning tasks.
No Reported Practice of Manual Scavenging
Athawale also stated, “There is no report of practice of manual scavenging currently in the country.” This assertion underscores the official stance that manual scavenging, a practice officially banned under the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act of 2013, is not occurring. Despite this, the high number of fatalities suggests that dangerous conditions persist in sanitation work.
Compensation for Sewer Cleaning Deaths
The government mandates a compensation of Rs. 30 lakhs for the families of those who die while cleaning sewers. This compensation is to be paid by the responsible agency, whether it is the Union, Union Territory, or the State government.
Health Risks and Safety Measures
Sewage contains harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, posing significant health risks to those who come into direct contact with it. Common illnesses resulting from exposure include gastroenteritis. Therefore, it is crucial for workers to wear protective clothing, such as rubber gloves, boots, and eye protection, to mitigate these risks.
Exposure to sewer gas can also be harmful, causing symptoms such as tiredness, eye irritation, coughing, nausea, shortness of breath, headaches, irritability, memory issues, or dizziness. These health risks highlight the need for stringent safety protocols and protective measures for sanitation workers.
Historical Context of Fatalities
Since 1993, a total of 1,035 people have died while undertaking hazardous cleaning of sewers and septic tanks across India. The Social Justice Ministry informed the Lok Sabha on March 14 that compensation had been given to the families of 948 of these victims. This long history of fatalities underscores the persistent dangers faced by sanitation workers.
Steps Towards Better Implementation of the Law
In his statement, Athawale listed the steps taken for the effective implementation of the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act 2013. This act aims to eradicate the inhumane practice of manual scavenging and rehabilitate those affected. However, the ongoing deaths indicate that more needs to be done to ensure the safety and well-being of sanitation workers.
Strengthening Law Implementation
Athawale outlined the measures taken to enforce the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act of 2013, which aims to eliminate the inhumane practice of manual scavenging and support the rehabilitation of those impacted. Despite these efforts, the continuing fatalities underscore the need for further action to safeguard the health and safety of sanitation workers.
Conclusion
The alarming number of deaths among sanitation workers engaged in hazardous cleaning of sewers and septic tanks highlights the urgent need for improved safety measures and strict enforcement of existing laws. While the government claims that manual scavenging is no longer practiced, the fatalities suggest that dangerous working conditions remain prevalent. Ensuring the safety of these workers through adequate protective measures, proper training, and stringent enforcement of compensation protocols is crucial for preventing further tragedies and protecting the lives of those who perform this essential work.
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