20 BMC workers found infected with TB

As many as 20 staff members of BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) have been found infected with tuberculosis at a health camp here.
During the health camps held yesterday in suburban Mumbai to mark the death anniversary of Sant Gadgebaba Maharaj, the original proponent of cleanliness for good health, 20 conservancy staff members (safai kamgars) out of nearly 400 examined by doctors were found infected with tuberculosis, according to an NGO which organised the camp.
The health camps were organised at the solid waste management outpost at Kamani junction in Kurla and at the outpost located in MHADA Colony, Chandivili, by a group of NGOs like Panchsheel Mahila Mandal, Athak Seva Sangh and Mahatma Gandhi Community Centre.

"Recently, the BMC corporators had discussed the health situation of its conservancy staff and the rising cases of deaths of its workers. In the backdrop of this concern, 20 conservancy staff infected with TB at various stages being found at the health camp is serious," said RTI activist Anil Galgali, who heads the Athak Seva Sangh.
Two serious cases have been recommended to Sion Hospital for further treatment, he said.
"These conservancy staff work hard for the cleanliness of Mumbai, hence their health should be of prime importance," Galgali said.
Unless and until the importance of cleanliness is explained to every individual, the goal of complete cleanliness cannot be achieved, said Sudheendra Kulkarni, of Mahatma Gandhi Community Centre.

Mumbai L-ward's assistant municipal commissioner Prashant Sapkale said he would ensure health check of all staff members in his civic ward.