Wed Nov 27 19:48:43 UTC 2024: ## Delhi Construction Workers Protest for Compensation Amidst Air Pollution Restrictions

**NEW DELHI, November 28, 2024** – Construction workers in Delhi protested on Wednesday, demanding compensation for lost income due to anti-pollution measures that have halted construction activities. The workers, affiliated with the Building Workers Union, met with Lieutenant-Governor V.K. Saxena and Labour Department officials, presenting memorandums requesting increased daily wages and a dedicated 5% budgetary allocation for their welfare.

The protests follow the Commission for Air Quality Management’s November 15th announcement of restrictions, including a construction ban, to combat Delhi’s severe air pollution. While the Supreme Court has directed Delhi and neighboring states to utilize existing cess funds for worker compensation and provide a weekly subsistence allowance, the Delhi government has yet to announce a plan.

An Aam Aadmi Party source stated that the Chief Secretary has been instructed to comply with the Supreme Court’s orders. However, delays are attributed to the lapse of the Delhi Building and Other Construction Workers’ Welfare Board (DBOCWWB) panel in May, with a new panel yet to be formed. The DBOCWWB currently holds over ₹4,700 crore in funds. While the process to form a new board is underway, a government source indicated that the Lieutenant-Governor could direct the disbursement of compensation in the interim.

Read More