Kupwara: PHE Division Kupwara ( Jal Shakti Department) has transferred several daily wagers to far-off locations, raising significant concerns about their ability to sustain their livelihoods. These workers, who earn a meager monthly wage of ₹9,000, are now burdened with daily transportation costs ranging from ₹100 to ₹150.
The decision has drawn sharp criticism from affected workers, who argue that their already minimal earnings barely cover basic necessities. With the added expense of commuting to distant work locations, many are struggling to meet daily household needs, let alone save for unforeseen expenses.
“We are barely managing to survive on ₹9,000 a month. Now, with daily transportation costs, it’s becoming impossible to feed our families,” lamented one worker.
The transfers have sparked outrage among the local community, with many questioning the rationale behind the decision. Residents and activists are urging the authorities to reconsider the transfers and take measures to ensure that workers are not pushed further into economic distress.
Stakeholders have called for a review of the policy and have suggested either increasing the wages of these workers or ensuring their placement closer to their respective residences to minimize commuting expenses.
This issue highlights the challenges faced by low-income workers in the region and calls for a more empathetic approach to governance.
