Impact of COVID-19 and the Lockdown on Construction Workers in Madurai

Abstract

Construction is the second major economic activity in India and the construction workers constitute a major section of the workforce. They suffered from a lack of employment due to COVID-19 lockdown enforced by the government. The study was done in Madurai in Tamil Nadu. It aimed to study the effect of COVID-19 infection, the lockdown from April to August 2020, and post lockdown from September to December 2020. A range of reports, census, and NSSO data, a sample survey of 100 construction workers using structured questionnaires, and open-ended discussions with union activists, workers, government officials, tool renters is used. The study finds the workers are not affected by COVID-19 infection. However, they are affected by reduced wage incomes, hardships, and lack of alternative employment. It finds the deplorable conditions of workers remain the same as reported in the past. The statutory bodies expected to support workers are not of much use. The systems established to offer entitlements, social security and relief are cumbersome and unworkable. Women workers suffered disproportionately. The meagre relief and support announced by the Union and State governments did not reach them. It is time to implement the law, policy, and institutional mechanisms to safeguard workers’ interests.