Invisible under busy flyover, people who do Delhi's laundry

Anindya Chattopadhyay / TNN / Jan 22, 2025, 10:30 IST

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Dhobi Ghat near Barapullah flyover in Delhi faces long-standing issues despite political promises. The facility provides washing services, but residents struggle with waterlogging, sewage, and lack of governmental support. Generational dhobis balance traditional and modern techniques, while new amenities like tap water influence voting preferences.

Invisible under busy flyover, people who do Delhi's laundry

NEW DELHI: At Dhobi Ghat near Barapullah flyover on Lodhi Road, Nila Devi (61) reflects from her modest home: "Elections come and go, but the circumstances of dhobis remain static, with generations continuing to wash clothes for hospitals and hotels."

Located beside the new double storey MCD market, Dhobi Ghat provides services to hospitals, hotels and beauty parlours across Delhi. This govt-established facility houses 30 residences containing roughly 120 registered voters.

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Pramod Kumar, a fourth-generation dhobi, states: "My grandfather, Bandu Ram, had a 1954's licence, and we witnessed, generation after generation, how three types of washing technologies coexist in our locality: the traditional method, semi-automatic and automatic machines."

The younger generation has supported their seniors in adopting contemporary washing and ironing techniques with mechanical suction assistance.

"My brother and father continue in this profession, but I sought employment elsewhere. Ever since my birth, we received tap water for the first time in 2022, naturally influencing many to vote for such progress," says Nandini Maretha (24).

However, Kamta Prasad notes: "After election, politicians disappear.

We face persistent waterlogging during monsoons and year-round sewage problems, with no improvements from govt or civic authorities."

Referring to former CM Arvind Kejriwal's announcement of seven "guarantees" for Delhi's dhobi community, Ravi Kumar, president of Delhi Pradesh Dhobi Mahasabha, New Delhi Zone, says: "Our problems range from licencing issues to need for loans to buy new machines. No one listens to our woes."

About the Author

Anindya Chattopadhyay

Anindya Chattopadhyay is the deputy photo editor with The Times of India, Delhi. He began his career in 2002 in Kolkata, following his graduation with a diploma in photography from Jadavpur University. Anindya has gathered a varied work experience, working both as a freelancer and employed with various newspapers, before joining TOI. He has covered everything from natural disasters, elections, jailbreaks, killings and massacres, sports, technology, hunger and even humour.

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