Lockdown sparks spurt in migration of labourers

BQ: “Some NGOs and social activists are offering biscuits, bread and cooked rice to such persons.” Varun Sheokand, local resident

Tribune News Service

Faridabad, March 27

With no jobs for casual workers and daily wagers following the lockdown, there is a spurt in migration of labourers from the district. Hundreds of such persons and members of their families have left the city.

“We have decided to leave for our village in Hardoi district of Uttar Pradesh as we have neither work nor money to fend for ourselves,” said Rajender, a labourer working with a contractor here.

He said their group of more than 30 persons, including women and children, had decided to walk home as there was no train or bus. He said the contractor had said he would be unable to pay them during the lockdown period.

Prakash, a construction contractor, stated that a large number of workers residing in slum clusters here had already left the city. He said work was suspended since March 20.

Ram Prashad and Ghanshyam, part of the group of over 100 labourers walking from Gurugram, said they were on their way to Jhansi and Tikamgarh in Uttar Pradesh.

“We hope to get some conveyance from the Kosi border in Uttar Pradesh as the government has promised help,” said Ghanshyam.

“Some NGOs and social activists are offering biscuits, bread and cooked rice to such persons,” said Varun Sheokand, a local resident.

Deputy Commissioner Yashpal Yadav said efforts were on halt the movement of such persons. He claimed that food and shelter were being offered to persons having no food and money.

He said migration of workers from other parts of the NCR was being reported. He said help, including food and water, was being offered to those in distress and efforts to start home delivery of essential items were on.