Delhi government announces labour welfare measures

The Delhi government on Tuesday announced a slew of welfare measures for construction workers, including hospitals and temporary accommodations.

Delhi Labour Minister Gopal Rai said the government is planning schools and creches for the children of migrant labours in the city.

The minister said the areas which have large concentrations of such workers will be identified to provide the facilities.

"We will identify spots where hostels for migrant labours will be built. This will also stop illegal settlements in the city," said Rai.

"The Supreme Court has expressed concern over the plight of construction labourers in states. The Delhi government has Rs.1,883 crore in the welfare fund for construction workers, but only Rs.60 crore has been spent till now," he said.

The minister also said that the city government will finance the talented children's education.

Besides, toilets and drinking water facilities will be provided at the spots where the workers gather.

These decisions were taken in a meeting of reconstituted Delhi Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board.

Rai said there were about 2.25 lakh construction workers in the city.

The decision to hike the financial benefits for them was also taken.