Pune: While the government has started issuing passes to industries which are planning to start their operations from April 20, workers employed in such industries are worried about many issues. While the industries will begin in a phased manner, some workers who are dependent on public transport will have to face some challenges.
Sandeep Belsare, President of Pimpri-Chinchwad Small-Scale Industries Association, said that while some industries in rural areas are about to start, factories in Pune city and Pimpri Chinchwad should restart after the coronavirus lockdown ends.
“Pune is currently in the red zone, and we know that the cases of COVID-19 are increasing daily. The workers are worried if they come in contact with a COVID-19 positive person, they will spread the disease which can further lead to major damage. While companies will take adequate precaution and hygiene measures, there is no way a person can be checked for COVID-19 at the industry level. Making use of thermal scanners may not help,” added Belsare.
Speaking about challenges which workers may face at the workplace, Belsare said that in some cases, maintaining social distance may be a problem due to industry challenges.
“Similarly, some workers have left for their hometown and will not get transportation to come back and join their industry. Moreover, if the company is not providing transportation, then the company should arrange for temporary residence for workers near the factory itself. Some workers are staying in areas which are sealed by the government to contain the spread of COVID-19,” added Belsare.
Officials of the district administration said that industries like medicine, healthcare, food processing, agriculture processing, dairy products would have to be started on priority as these products are essential for people.
Speaking on the issue of starting industries, Director General, CII, Chandrajit Banerjee said that the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has called for certain modifications in the guidelines issued by the government on the resumption of economic activities from April 20 which will help to avoid disruptions in the supply chain.
“The guidelines issued by the government on the relaxation of lockdown after April 20 within the parameters of safety precautions have brought relief to industry as well as workers and farmers. While the restart of economic activities takes place, certain items relating to operations across the entire supply chain could be further included to enable smooth operations.
"CII has suggested continued stringent lockdown in specified containment zones with rest of the identified hotspot districts to be open to economic activities with adequate safety measures,” said Banerjee.
