The Tamil Nadu state construction workers’ association has urged the government to release the first instalment of Rs 1,000 to be given as compensation to construction workers during the lockdown period.
Madurai district member of the association, R Ganeshan, submitted a petition in this regard to collector Dr T G Vinay on Wednesday.
The construction industry has come to a standstill, and many workers are suffering. The relief of groceries through PDS shops and a mere Rs 1,000 is not going to help many families as their needs are much more.
Meanwhile, only 80% of the workers have received the groceries and many are yet to receive the first instalment given to members registered with the welfare board. The instalments for May and June should also be released without further delay, added Ganeshan.
Tamil Nadu has about 75 lakh construction workers and about 30 lakh have registered with the welfare board. But, just over 12 lakh registrations are active. The welfare measures should be given to all and the relief amount should be increased to Rs 10,000, he said.
