Housing complex for migrant workers takes shape in D’gere

Pic: A temporary housing complex in DavanagereDavanagere: Well-equipped temporary housing complexes are being constructed at JH Patel Layout in Davanagere at Rs 18 crore to provide accommodation for construction and other workers migrating to the district centre in search of employment. The Karnataka Building and Other Construction Workers' Welfare Board is providing the facility under the Shramik Nivas scheme. Two housing complexes capable of accommodating a total of 528 workers are under construction. One complex is nearing completion and is likely to be inaugurated in April.Some land from the 2 acres belonging to the Workers Welfare Board at JH Patel Layout is being used for the workers' housing project. Each complex comprises two buildings, providing accommodation for 264 workers.One complex is ready, with only painting and interior design pending, while the construction of the 2nd complex is nearing completion of the 2nd floor. Each complex includes 2-storey buildings designed in an apartment style, with dormitory arrangements for workers.There are spacious halls that can accommodate over 25 beds, with separate arrangements for men and women. The complex includes facilities for cooking, toilets, and bathrooms, with a dining hall on the ground floor.According to an official, "The housing complex is being constructed according to the rules set by the Workers' Welfare Board. It is designed to ensure ventilation and light, with community toilets and bathrooms."Finding accommodation is a major issue for construction workers arriving at Davanagere from Central Karnataka in search of work. Workers who worked on a monthly or daily basis find it difficult to rent houses or rooms, and workers coming with their families reside near construction sites.Despite lack of basic facilities, they continue to live in dilapidated conditions, and the Workers Welfare Board is constructing housing complexes to provide temporary accommodation. Only construction workers are allowed to stay in these complexes, and workers could stay in the building by paying Rs 50 per day. Facilities for sleeping, resting, and cooking are provided. Similar housing complexes are already facilitating workers in several districts, including Bengaluru, Shivamogga, and Chamarajanagar, said sources.The housing complex is being constructed at a cost of Rs 18 crore. Temporary housing will be provided for 528 workers, while there are 80,000 construction workers in the district, said officials.District labour officer SR Aravind said migrant construction workers from other states, districts, and taluks can seek temporary shelter here.