Kerala: Rising temperature causes concern

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state capital is literally burning with rising temperatures. Sunstroke cases may rise as the heat is set to go up further in the coming days. According to meteorology department, Kerala is likely to get warmer than normal by 0.5 degree Celsius to 1 degree Celsius from March to May.

The labour department the other day had issued a notification directing to restructure the work hours of outdoor workers to dodge the scorching sun. As per the new schedule, the first shift should end at 12 noon and the second shift should start at 3 p.m.  

However, this circular is being flouted with the authorities failing to enforce it. As many as 15 major constructions are happening in the Kazhakoottam region and five major constructions within the city limits. According to an official of the district labour department, the working hours should be displayed at the construction site.

“We have given direction to the labour officers at every taluk in the district to check all major and minor construction sites to ensure that labourers are not misused,” said the official.

Strict action will be taken against the violators under the Kerala Minimum Wages Act and Rules.

The district labour department had issued around 39,000 Awaz insurance cards given by the Kerala government for migrant labourers.

“We will be informing all supervisors of the construction site to reschedule the working hours. Our officers will be visiting all major construction sites and submitting a report,” said the official.