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At cost of health, bare hands sort Bengaluru’s garbage

TT Editor·Updated: 20 Feb 2026 8:16 am IST
Read time: 1 min
At cost of health, bare hands sort Bengaluru’s garbage

Bengaluru's pourakarmikas, who play a crucial role in maintaining the city's sanitation, are working under perilous conditions that endanger their health. These sanitation workers, often seen sorting through waste with bare hands, are exposed to hazardous materials without adequate protective gear or support from their employers. This distressing situation not only underscores the urgent need for reforms in their employment practices but also raises broader questions about the city's commitment to worker safety and public health. As the city grapples with increasing waste management challenges, the plight of pourakarmikas highlights the importance of ensuring their rights and well-being are prioritized. Advocacy groups are calling for immediate action to improve working conditions and implement protective measures, emphasizing that a healthier workforce will ultimately benefit the community as a whole.

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