Trade union council urges relief for workers displaced by rains in Surabhi Layout

Bengaluru: The All India Central Council of Trade Unions (AICCTU) called on authorities on Thursday to provide urgent relief to workers in Surabhi Layout, Jakkur, who were left homeless after heavy rains inundated the area.

In a letter addressed to Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and the principal secretaries of the Labour, Housing, and Social Welfare departments, PP Appanna of AICCTU criticised the focus on relief for large apartments and upscale localities, while neglecting working-class areas.

"Sixty-two families, including around 40 children, have lived in the area for 15 years. The men are construction workers, The men are construction workers, while the women are into construction and domestic work. Following the rains on October 21, the entire area was submerged, forcing the families to relocate to a nearby under-construction building for shelter. Without basic amenities, they are in a vulnerable situation," the note stated.

The AICCTU acknowledged that the BBMP visited the area on Tuesday to provide a single meal, but was disappointed over the lack of follow-up action by the government officials.

The union urged authorities to drain water from the affected houses, provide ration supplies, clothing, bedding, and tarpaulins for temporary shelters, and compensate the workers for their losses.