Maharashtra Govt Eases Minimum Service Duration for Sanitation Workers
Mumbai: The Maharashtra government has taken a significant step towards improving the working conditions of sanitation workers by reducing the minimum service duration required for them to receive benefits. The new policy, announced by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, will see the minimum service duration for sanitation workers reduced from 25 years to 20 years. This move is part of the 'Manhole to Machinehole' programme, which aims to transition sewer hole cleaning to a mechanized mode, reducing human exposure to hazardous environments.
The decision was made during a meeting chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, where Urban Development Department officials were instructed to implement the new minimum service criterion. The 'Manhole to Machinehole' programme is a comprehensive initiative designed to promote mechanized cleaning of sewers, septic tanks, and drainage lines. This is achieved through the procurement of modern vehicles, robotic units, and advanced sanitation tools.
The primary goal of this initiative is to minimize human involvement in sewer cleaning, with manpower being utilized primarily for supervisory roles. To support this transition, an outlay of Rs 504 crore has been approved for the scheme, with an additional Rs 100 crore allocated through a supplementary demand in the 2024-25 monsoon session. The procurement of machinery and emergency vehicles has already begun, and the agencies involved are responsible for maintaining these vehicles for three years and training sanitation workers to operate them.
Pawar emphasized the importance of strict implementation of the government resolution (GR) based on the recommendations of the Lad-Page Committee. He warned that non-compliance would result in action against the concerned authorities. Civic bodies have been instructed to submit detailed reports on the number of sanitation workers working in their respective jurisdictions to the Urban Development Department.
In addition to the reduced service duration, the Maharashtra government provides free housing units to sanitation workers either upon retirement or to their legal heirs in the event of death during service, under the Babasaheb Ambedkar Shram Safalya Awas Yojana. This initiative aims to ensure that sanitation workers are provided with a safe and secure environment both during and after their service, recognizing their crucial role in maintaining public health and hygiene.
The 'Manhole to Machinehole' programme is a significant step towards modernizing sanitation services and improving the quality of life for sanitation workers. By reducing the minimum service duration and providing better working conditions, the Maharashtra government is demonstrating its commitment to the welfare of these essential workers.
