TFP Bureau, Raipur, February 21, 2025: In a major relief for sanitation workers, the state government has announced new guidelines under Mission Clean City to improve the working conditions of Swachhta Didi and Safai Mitras employed in urban bodies. The guidelines mandate an eight-hour work shift, weekly rotational leave, and one paid casual leave per month. Additionally, all workers will be registered under the Labor Department to ensure they receive benefits from various welfare schemes.
The Urban Administration and Development Department has issued instructions to all urban local bodies, emphasizing strict adherence to the revised guidelines. These will apply to all municipal corporations, municipalities, and Nagar Panchayats, except Raipur, Bhilai, and Risali. Officials have been directed to monitor implementation and submit compliance reports regularly.
Key Provisions of the New Guidelines
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Fixed Working Hours & Leave Structure
- The daily working hours are set at eight, with shifts running either from 6 AM to 3 PM or 7 AM to 4 PM, including a one-hour lunch break.
- Work beyond the designated hours is strictly prohibited, except in special circumstances.
- Each worker will receive a weekly rotational leave to ensure uninterrupted waste collection services.
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Labor Department Registration & Welfare Benefits
- All sanitation workers will be registered under the Labor Department portal.
- They will receive benefits from labor welfare schemes, including life insurance and medical claims.
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Health Check-ups & Medical Support
- Monthly health check-ups will be conducted through the Chief Minister Slum Health Scheme.
- Every three months, workers will undergo comprehensive medical tests, including blood tests, thyroid tests, BP and sugar tests, urine analysis, and cholesterol screening.
- Local bodies will coordinate health camps to facilitate these medical services.
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Safety Gear & Uniforms
- Workers will be provided with essential safety equipment, including uniforms, aprons, gloves, socks, masks, shoes, caps, and raincoats.
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Work Scope & Disciplinary Action
- Swachhta Didi and Safai Mitras will strictly perform door-to-door waste collection and disposal. They will not be assigned tasks such as street sweeping or drain cleaning.
- Any violation of this directive will lead to strict disciplinary action.
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Improvement of Infrastructure & Facilities
- The maintenance and repair of Swachhta Livelihood Resource Management (SLRM) centers will be funded under the repair and maintenance budget.
- In case of major repairs, additional funds will be allocated after review by the State Urban Development Authority (SUDA).
The move has been welcomed by self-help groups working in urban sanitation. The new provisions aim to enhance the dignity, safety, and well-being of sanitation workers, ensuring their crucial role in urban cleanliness is recognized and supported.
