Safai Mitra's Survey
Safai Mitra’s in West Bengal operate in the informal sector and are not covered by most social security systems. Due to a lack of market awareness among Safai Mitra’s, they are fully reliant on local scrap dealers, and the lack of a network platform and advocacy for Safai Mitra’s and waste handlers’ occupational rights, they are economically disadvantaged by scrap merchants or waste management agencies.
Due to a lack of information about waste treatment, exposure to toxic waste, and an unpleasant environment, Safai Mitra’s typically suffer from chronic health issues such as skin illnesses, respiratory problems, and other ailments. Covid-19 has made an influence not only in the Safai Mitra’s circle but also across the country. As a result of the decrease inwaste, their income has fallen as well
We conducted a demographic survey and scoping study namely “Padakhep- An initiative” of Safai Mitra’s and Scrap dealers to know their socio-economic and health status, the impact of Covid -19 situation in occupational life of them, the amount and nature of waste collected by them, distribute them Safety kit (Mask, Gloves, Soap) for protection from Covid-19 and most importantly to know their interest level for network formation with formal paid system and incentive and trying to build a strong network with them aiming to develop their skill and formalize them along with raising awareness on the importance of hygiene.
Gramin Vikas Trust (GVT), from Purulia and Islampur Ramkrishnapally Rural Welfare Society (IRRWS) from Uttar Dinajpur also collaborated with us in this entire survey. 122 informal Safai Mitra’s and 17 scrap dealers were surveyed in different locations Under North, South 24 PGS, Kolkata, Howrah (Uluberia), Uttar Dinajpur (Islampur). The survey was analysed and the report has been prepared as a background study for further initiatives to be taken up by the foundation.
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