NHRC notices to Delhi Chief Secretary, Commissioner of Police, Delhi and the CEO Jal Board over reported deaths in a sewage plant at Kondli

New Delhi, 31st March, 2022

The National Human Rights Commission, NHRC, India has taken suo motu cognizance of yet another incident in the National Capital, wherein two persons died after falling into a pit at a sewage treatment plant in Kondli on 30th March, 2022. Reportedly, the victims were repairing a motor at the Delhi Jal Board facility.

The Commission has issued notices to the Chief Secretary, Government of NCT of Delhi, the Commissioner of Police, Delhi and the Chief Executive Officer, Delhi Jal Board calling for a detailed report in the matter within four weeks. The report is expected to include action against the responsible official functionaries along with the relief and rehabilitation provided to the next of kin of the deceased persons.

Expressing serious concern over the continued incidents of the deaths in sewage related works in the absence of proper equipment and safety measures, the Commission has observed that apparently, due diligence is not being exercised by the authorities concerned despite the directions from the Apex Courts and its own interventions.

The Commission time and again has emphasized that health and safety of the sewage workers is of prime importance and any laxity on the part of the employer poses a serious threat to the right to life and right to health of these workers. There should be systemic efforts to take care of their safety concerns and health hazards. Appropriate training, use of technology and proper equipment can go a long way in mitigating the risks to which these workers are exposed to.

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