Workers at the Dhubri-Phulbari bridge construction site in Assam staged a protest against their employer, L&T Company, alleging violations of labour laws. Their demands focused on fair wages, improved working conditions, and a more humane leave policy. This protest brought attention to the challenges faced by construction workers in the region.
The Dhubri-Phulbari bridge project, one of Assam’s most ambitious infrastructure undertakings, promises to significantly enhance connectivity between Assam and Meghalaya. However, this vision of development is currently overshadowed by the grievances of those building it. Workers claim that their concerns have been ignored, leading them to raise their voices collectively.
Protesters highlighted the wage discrepancies, accusing the company of paying lower wages compared to industry standards. They argued that the wages do not reflect the strenuous nature of their work or the high-risk environment of a construction site. Many workers shared personal accounts of financial struggles, emphasizing how inadequate compensation fails to meet even basic living expenses.
One worker shared his frustration, stating that despite working long hours in tough conditions, he struggles to provide for his family. “The company expects us to give our best, but they don’t meet us halfway with fair treatment,” he remarked, summing up the collective sentiment at the protest site.
The issue of leave policies also took center stage during the demonstrations. Workers alleged that the company’s policies are rigid and fail to accommodate personal emergencies or health-related absences. This, they say, has led to unnecessary stress and has affected their morale. Another worker voiced his concern, adding, “Even if someone falls ill, we are forced to choose between working through the sickness or risking our jobs.”
The protest gained momentum as workers united in demanding accountability and urging the authorities to intervene. Trade unions have extended their support, calling for an investigation into the alleged violations. The unions emphasized that while infrastructure projects are essential for regional development, the workforce driving these projects cannot be neglected.
Local residents have also expressed mixed reactions to the protest. Some sympathize with the workers, acknowledging the validity of their grievances. Others worry about the impact of the disruption on the project’s timeline, which is eagerly anticipated by communities on both sides of the Brahmaputra River. “The bridge is a lifeline for us, but the workers’ rights cannot be compromised. Both issues need urgent resolution,” a resident said.
L&T Company, in its response, denied allegations of labour law violations. The management assured that they are open to dialogue and are committed to addressing genuine concerns. A representative from the company stated, “We prioritize the welfare of our workers and follow all legal guidelines. We will investigate the claims and work towards a resolution.”
Despite these assurances, workers remain skeptical, pointing out past instances where similar promises were made but not fulfilled. They have vowed to continue their protest until concrete actions are taken to address their demands. Some workers also expressed disappointment over the lack of governmental intervention, urging the administration to mediate and ensure their rights are upheld.
The Dhubri-Phulbari bridge project, once completed, will become a vital corridor for trade and travel, cutting down travel time significantly and fostering economic growth in the region. However, the ongoing protest serves as a reminder that development cannot come at the cost of human dignity and rights.
Labour rights activists have also weighed in on the matter, emphasizing the broader implications of the protest. They argue that the workers’ demands reflect systemic issues in the construction industry, where labour laws are often poorly enforced. “This is not just about one bridge or one company. It’s about ensuring that every worker in the country is treated with fairness and respect,” an activist said.
As the protest continues, the focus remains on finding a resolution that balances the urgency of completing the project with the need to address the workers’ grievances. The situation at the Dhubri-Phulbari bridge construction site underscores the importance of ethical practices in large-scale infrastructure projects and the role of accountability in fostering sustainable development.