Staff reporter
Guwahati: As construction work on major infrastructure projects progresses across Guwahati, alarming safety violations have come to light, raising serious concerns about the well-being of labourers. Despite working in hazardous conditions, many workers at multiple construction sites-including those in Noonmati, Silpukhuri, and Chandmari-are seen toiling without essential protective gear. The blatant disregard for safety norms exposes these workers to severe risks, including falls, injuries, and long-term health hazards.
A recent visit to construction sites at Noonmati and Silpukhuri revealed several workers navigating treacherous conditions without helmets, harnesses, gloves, or any other protective equipment. At the Noonmati flyover construction site, labourers were observed walking on exposed reinforcement bars atop piers, completely unprotected. Similarly, at Silpukhuri, workers handling heavy steel structures lacked even the most basic safety gear. The absence of proper precautions not only endangers lives but also highlights possible lapses in the enforcement of labour safety regulations.
Commuters and residents passing through the Chandmari area have also reported unsafe working conditions at ongoing construction projects. Many have witnessed laborers working on scaffolding and elevated structures without harnesses or helmets. The lack of essential safety measures makes them vulnerable to falls and other potentially fatal accidents.
A worker at one of the sites, speaking anonymously, revealed the grim reality behind these violations. "Sometimes, we get helmets, but most of the time, we work like this. There is no choice," he said. Another labourer said, emphasizing their economic vulnerability. "We do this work for money. We are daily wage earners, and if we complain and wait for safety gear, we won't have food at the end of the day. So whatever we get, we work with that only," he said.
When contacted about these safety violations, a Public Works Department (PWD) official stated that the responsibility for worker safety lies with the contractors. "The responsibility of the safety of the construction worker is of the contractor; we are there to monitor. Even though we aren't responsible for all these things, whenever we get any complaints, we try to solve them as soon as possible and also visit our sites from time to time to check if everything is alright," the official said.
Despite the Assam government's safety guidelines mandating the use of hard hats, steel-toed shoes, gloves, and ear protection at construction sites, on-ground reality suggests widespread non-compliance. The Building and Other Construction Workers Act, 1996, requires construction companies to ensure a safe working environment for laborers. However, the situation at these sites points to serious lapses in enforcement and oversight.
Reports indicate that injuries caused by inadequate safety measures are not uncommon. Yet, workers continue to take risks, often because they have little to no alternative. "We have to be careful on our own. Helmets and harnesses are not always given," admitted another worker, illustrating the casual attitude toward worker protection.
With Guwahati undergoing significant infrastructural transformation, ensuring worker safety should be a top priority. The authorities must take immediate action to ensure that all construction companies comply with safety regulations. Strict monitoring, regular inspections, and penalties for violations should be enforced to prevent further negligence.
Until stringent measures are implemented, construction workers across the city will continue to risk their lives daily, making each workday a dangerous gamble. The urgent need for intervention cannot be overstated-without proper safety enforcement, the cost of development could come at the expense of human lives.
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