Silicosis cases rise sharply in Gujarat; 38 worker deaths reported in 2024-25

By A Representative

The Vadodara-based advocacy group Peoples Training & Research Centre (PTRC)-released annual report for 2024-25 on silicosis in Gujarat has revealed alarming figures, showing a sharp increase in both diagnosed cases and deaths compared to the previous year. During the year, 721 workers were identified as having been exposed to silica dust, of whom 119 were diagnosed with silicosis. Among them, 38 workers died, a significant rise from 12 deaths in 2023-24.

The report notes that while overall exposure cases increased by 43 percent, the number of diagnosed patients rose by 15 percent. However, deaths surged by 216 percent. Most cases were reported from Surendranagar and Morbi districts, though incidents were not confined to these regions.

Complaints were filed by PTRC with the National Human Rights Commission regarding 30 deaths and 48 affected workers. Families of eight deceased workers received state assistance of ₹1 lakh each, though the report suggests that many eligible families may have been left out. The organization also assisted workers in securing benefits under the Employees’ State Insurance Act, including disability payments.

Awareness activities such as posters, booklets, and campaigns were undertaken by PTRC to highlight silicosis and construction worker safety. The group also distributed medical support equipment such as oxygen concentrators, nebulizers, and toilet aids to patients. Despite limited resources, collaboration with foundations like Human Capability Foundation and Azim Premji Foundation supported their work.

The report highlights several meetings with government officials, petitions for effective enforcement of labor and health laws, and field visits across Gujarat. It also records challenges such as alleged irregularities in medical camps organized under industry pressure, denial of compensation to affected workers, and cases of harassment faced by silicosis victims and their families.

The organization stressed that despite repeated appeals, implementation of Supreme Court and High Court directives on silicosis prevention and compensation remains weak. It called for stricter enforcement, better medical facilities, and stronger social security measures for workers exposed to silica dust.

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