With rapid industrialisation in Jharsuguda district, demand for stone for construction works has led to spread of quarries and crusher units across the district. The worrying fact is while these units are causing dust pollution, many of them are running without permission from the competent authority. Sources reveal that over 500 migrant families are working in about 60 stone quarries located at Tilia, Thebra, Bandhbahal, Fata, Sunari and Negipali areas under lakhanpur Tehsil, Chandnimal and Gaurmal Panchayat in Jharsuguda Tehsil of the district. Generally, the big stones are blasted to recover stones of the desired size and specification. The quarries are running even during the peak hours of summer.
Notably, last year, two workers died in blasting operation in Pipalikani area under lakhanpur Tehsil. The child labourers did not enjoy even basic facilities in these places, sources said. The most pathetic is small children are put to work in the units along with their parents. The children are carrying stones causing risk to their life. The labour Department should look into this as working by the children violates labour laws.
The labourers alleged that each child labour is paid just Rs 60 to Rs 80 per week and their parents only Rs 400 per week, which is against the Minimum Wage Act. Children also work under hazardous and unsafe conditions. Meanwhile, Jharsuguda District labour Officer Arun Roy said he would look into the matter.