The COVID-19 pandemic has gripped nations, compelling governments to impose countrywide lockdowns to contain the spread of the deadly virus. In our country, with a majority of its population living below the poverty line, we are on the cusp of an explosion of coronavirus cases.

Image courtesy: qz.com

The impact of this situation is high on the community who work in our sector- architecture and construction. These daily wage workers and migrant laborers are either ‘walking back’ to their homes or ‘quarantined’ in open spaces.

Image courtesy: qz.com

Why has this situation arisen? It traces the social patriarchy that is being followed in our country. Isn’t it the responsibility of the powerful to take care of the vulnerable during crucial periods like this? Now that we are pushed to look at just immediate relief measures, this problem could have been handled better if we had preset databases about the migrant workers. Accommodation (housing board units, on-site lodging) can be provided in order to avoid the huge displacement of people during a crisis. For now, we can look at creating immediate quarantine pods for these migrants to stay safe and keep us safe.

Image courtesy: qz.com

Many NGOs have also come up with Relief schemes for the public to contribute. Several internet platforms and startups have enabled individual donations. Here are a couple of trusted organizations who are working to help these people.

https://milaap.org/fundraisers/support-india

https://goonj.org/support-covid-19-affected/

We take it up as a responsibility to stand by those who work for us and encourage you to do the same. Let us be aware of the people around us and contribute in whatever way possible. 

Stay safe