Observational Research at Labour Chowk in Greater Noida, a Preliminary Study on Migrant Construction Workers

Abstract

This Author has worked with migrant construction workers throughout his long career and has witnessed a variety of problems they face. The outcomes of earlier studies also supported his experience. Hence, after superannuation, he was compelled to study their situation in detail and continued his research on migrant construction workers. Before commencing fieldwork, he conducted observational (Covert and naturalist) research at Labour Chowk, Greater Noida, UP, as a preliminary study. It is felt that there is a need for a systematic sociological analysis of the situation and for its presentation to policymakers. Furthermore, this will serve as an additional input to the research study on migrant construction workers. The problems faced by migrant construction workers in general constitute a 21st-century crisis with social relevance and require the attention of all concerned. The methodology employed is covert and naturalistic observational research. Based on observations, their interpretation, and analysis, the author reached certain conclusions. As this is an informal, disorganised, temporary arrangement, there is no proper infrastructure, such as toilets, drinking water, or a closed shed for protection during the hot summer and on rainy days. There is no guaranteed minimum wage or minimum working hours, and workers are subject to employers' discretion. Semi-skilled workers, such as painters and masons, have a strong likelihood of selection and skill development, and their skills are in demand. The author also recommends that the current mechanism be formalised as a physical platform to address these problems.