Over 200 sanitation workers staged a protest at the Udumalpet Municipality office demanding an increase in wages. The workers, under contract, claim reduced wages and lack of essential benefits.
Coimbatore: On Monday, chaos ensued at the Udumalpet Municipality Office as more than 200 sanitation workers organized a protest demanding higher wages and better working conditions. Representing all 33 wards of Udumalpet under contract, the workers are responsible for waste segregation and collection across the town.
The demonstrators argued that their contractor has been paying them decreased wages despite their essential role in maintaining sanitation, and official complaints have been ignored. This has escalated tensions, prompting today’s significant turnout.
As stated by one of the protesting workers, "We have been serving for over 20 years, yet we receive lower wages, which makes it difficult to meet basic needs like education and healthcare. There is also no provision of essential equipment or EPF contributions. If we inquire about our dues, supervisors and inspectors threaten to terminate us, treating us no better than slaves."
The workers demand full payment of the ₹600 mandated by the Tirupur District Collector, warning that failure to comply could lead to more intense and sustained demonstrations. The protest highlights the ongoing struggles faced by contractual sanitation workers in maintaining their livelihood while ensuring the cleanliness and health of the town.