The safety of construction workers in Guwahati continues to be a pressing concern, with numerous incidents highlighting the lack of adequate protective measures across both private and government projects. Contractors often prioritise cost-cutting over the well-being of their labourers, leading to the burden of safety
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High-rise construction sites frequently observe workers operating without proper harnesses, while road projects under the Public Works Department (PWD) display labourers lacking essential safety gear such as helmets, boots, gloves, and safety jackets. This negligence has resulted in multiple accidents, some fatal, underscoring the urgent need for stringent safety protocols.
In an incident a few years ago, a section of a flyover under construction near the Supermarket area collapsed, leading to the death of one worker and injuries to several others. Eyewitnesses reported that the workers were not equipped with appropriate safety gear at the time of the collapse.
More recently, on January 31, three workers sustained injuries after a portion of a guard wall collapsed at an under-construction drainage site in Chabipool. The injured were promptly rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. Preliminary investigations suggest that inadequate safety measures and oversight contributed to the mishap.
An official from the PWD, speaking to GPlus, stated, "We've given strict instructions to the contractors to use adequate safety equipment. But, a few contractors highlighted the fact that the workers are rather comfortable with no gears at all. This turns out to be a setback regarding a discipline in a workplace."
Despite these directives, enforcement remains lax, and many contractors continue to flout safety regulations. The absence of regular inspections and penalties for non-compliance further magnifies the situation, leaving workers vulnerable to accidents.
In another alarming event, a gas cylinder explosion at a construction site at Madhyam Ghat of the Brahmaputra, near the Fancy Bazar area, resulted in the death of one worker and left several others injured. The blast, which occurred during welding operations, highlighted the dangers of inadequate safety protocols and the absence of proper training for handling hazardous materials.
The lack of safety measures not only endangers the lives of workers but also poses significant risks to the public. A major crack was detected on the fourth pillar of Guwahati's Six-Mile flyover, 16 years after its construction. This structural deficiency raises concerns about the long-term safety and quality of construction projects in the city.
Experts emphasise the necessity for a cultural shift in the construction industry, where safety is regarded as a fundamental right rather than an optional expense. Regular training sessions, provision of appropriate safety gear, and strict adherence to safety protocols are imperative to prevent further tragedies.
The responsibility lies with both governmental bodies and private contractors to implement and enforce comprehensive safety measures. Without immediate and decisive action, the pattern of neglect and resultant accidents is poised to continue, casting a shadow over Guwahati's rapid urban development.
As the city aspires to modernise and expand, the welfare of its workforce must not be overlooked. Ensuring the safety of construction workers is not merely a regulatory obligation but a moral imperative that reflects the city's commitment to inclusive and responsible growth.
