Gurugram MC to improve skills, quality of life of sewage workers

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Gurugram, July 18

In a bid to improve the lives of ‘safaimitras’ (sewage workers) in the metropolitan city, the Gurugram Municipal Corporation (MCG) has launched the Sewage Worker’s Aid Programme (SWAP) in collaboration with a clothing company, Roots Apparels Private Limited.

The initiative aims to uplift and empower sanitation workers and their families through a series of comprehensive measures. It encompasses several key components for safaimitras designed to improve their working conditions and overall quality of life.

One of the primary initiatives includes providing uniforms to the workers and to ensure that they are equipped for their duties with dignity and professionalism. Additionally, the programme will offer occupational training to enhance their skills and efficiency in sewage management.

Moreover, SWAP seeks to establish linkages with various welfare schemes to ensure that the safaimitras receive essential benefits and support. Regular health check-ups and awareness programmes will also be conducted to prioritise the well-being of these workers who perform vital roles in maintaining public sanitation.

As part of its immediate actions, MCG has begun distributing raincoats to the safaimitras in preparation for the ensuing monsoon season, aiming to safeguard their health and comfort during the adverse weather conditions.

MCG Additional Commissioner Dr Balpreet Singh said, “The SWAP initiative under the SafaiMitra Suraksha programme will empower our workers and equip them to perform their duties in a more organised and professional manner. We are committed to enhance their skills through safe cleaning practices and linking them with essential welfare schemes along with skill building and employment linkage for their families.”

Vedant Kumar, a representative of Roots Apparels Private Limited, while emphasising the transformative goals of SWAP said, “Our objective is to swap the struggles of safaimitras with their strengths. Over the next six months, we will roll out various initiatives aimed at empowering these workers. This includes safety trainings to workers, skill-based training for families and creating pathways to sustainable employment.”

Dr Balpreet claimed that the launch of SWAP marks a significant collaborative effort between the municipal corporation and the private sector to improve the lives and working conditions of safaimitras in Gurugram and said the initiative underscores a commitment to social welfare and economic empowerment, reflecting a proactive approach to addressing the needs of sewage workers in urban environments.

Linking workers with welfare schemes

The SWAP initiative under the SafaiMitra Suraksha programme will empower our workers and equip them to perform their duties in a more organised and professional manner. We are committed to enhancing their skills through safe cleaning practices and linking them with essential welfare schemes along with skill building and employment linkage for their families. — Dr Balpreet Singh, Additional Commissioner, MCG