The Adalat held by the Kerala Women's Commission in Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday for Haritha Karma Sena members revealed some harsh realities commonly faced by this sector. Since this sector is predominantly dominated by women, their various issues do not seem to be receiving adequate attention. Haritha Karma Sena members engage in works that pose significant health risks. However, safety measures are grossly inadequate. Despite the risk of contracting infectious diseases, the workers are not provided with essential protective medicines and equipment. Around 200 women from Thiruvananthapuram district, who participated in the Adalat, shared the unvarnished realities of their hardships with the Women's Commission.

Despite working throughout the month in any adverse weather conditions, they are not paid even ₹10,000 as wages. While most people behave well towards them, there are many who view Haritha Karma Sena members with contempt and disdain. In cases of accidents or illnesses, the Haritha Karma Sena workers have to rely on personal funds for medical treatment, highlighting the lack of support. Most of these women come from financially poor families. Despite the meagre wages, they begin their door-to-door work early morning. During the Adalat, a suggestion was raised to hike the wages of Haritha Karma Sena members to a minimum of Rs 15,000. The authorities must consider this demand. Women's Commission Chairperson P Sathidevi announced that the commission will conduct a survey and research study next year to study the various problems faced by Haritha Karma Sena members.

Since research, studies, and surveys usually take time to complete in the state, certain urgent measures can be implemented in the meantime. Wage increase, medical assistance, protective measures, and improved working conditions - all these don't require study and research. This is a matter that officials can decide without these. Haritha Karma Sena plays a vital role in keeping our rural and urban areas clean and hygienic. Understanding the greatness of their work, it is essential to support them in all aspects and improve their living conditions. It is necessary to provide them with benefits that facilitate their well-being.

Kudumbashree, under the 'Malinya Muktha-Navakeralam' project's second phase, is set to launch a program to transform three million Ayalkoottam groups (neighbourhood groups) into 'Haritha Neighborhoods'. The initiative aims to declare these neighbourhoods fully green by February 15. Despite numerous efforts, the situation is so bad that the state's villages and cities cannot be made completely waste-free. Haritha neighbourhoods are being formed keeping this in mind. A study will be conducted to improve the existing waste management methods, green protocol compliance, and cleanliness activities in public places. The performance of each ayalkoottam will be evaluated and graded separately. If the public extends wholehearted support and cooperation to such initiatives aimed at making the state waste-free, it will lead to great success.