A risky existence: tackling dangers to the children of migrant construction workers

In India, there are regular reports of young children being killed or injured while living in makeshift houses on construction sites where their parents work long hours as labourers. However, construction companies, schools and NGOs are increasingly working together to provide on-site childcare centres and schools so children can both be kept safe from the dangers and receive an education.

By Orchie Bandyopadhyay on 13 May 2025

Occupational cancer: a ticking timebomb in construction

India’s construction workforce faces a heightened risk of occupational cancer due to poor control of exposure to carcinogens like asbestos, silica and UV radiation from the sun. And with the sector expected to expand rapidly in the coming years, campaigners are calling for immediate action from government and employers to prevent further increases in harmful exposure though better regulation and control of work tasks and sites.

By Orchie Bandyopadhyay on 07 February 2025

Maternity leave: India’s female road workers granted landmark rights

The Indian government recently ordered road construction employers to grant paid maternity leave to registered female road construction workers, but campaigners warn that many women in the unregistered construction sector will miss out on this vital new benefit.

By Orchie Bandyopadhyay on 08 April 2024

Plans to allow Indian construction workers to plug gaps in Israel’s workforce could endanger their safety, claim unions

By Orchie Bandyopadhyay on 08 February 2024

Construction: a risky business

High-profile collapses of under-construction bridges in India have claimed many lives in recent months – and led to renewed calls for greater government oversight of the activities of major construction companies to keep workers safe.

By Orchie Bandyopadhyay on 11 September 2023

Construction in India: a dangerous business

With deaths on construction sites a daily occurrence, campaigners say the central and state governments need to increase safety inspections – and ensure construction workers can access the social security benefits they are entitled to.

By Orchie Bandyopadhyay on 07 October 2022