Plight of workers

Unsafe working conditions at ship-breaking yards in Sitakunda have put the lives of hundreds of workers at risk. Explosions during the ship-breaking has killed many labourers in the last few years but no measures have been taken to protect them. In addition, environmental pollution caused by the ship-breaking poses serious health hazards. The ship-breakers are also accused of non-compliance of rules and regulations but the authorities seem indifferent. Taking measures to protect the environment as well as workers will help the industry grow and prosper, many believe. PHOTO: Zobaer Hossain Sikder