On January 16 2024, two workers lost their lives crushed by a heavy iron plate during the dismantling of a bulk carrier at Dewan Shipbreaking in Gadani, Pakistan.
According to the NGO Shipbreaking Platform, the National Trade Union Federation (NTUF) accuses authorities of negligence as there continues to be a lack of compliance with occupational health and safety standards in the shipbreaking sector.
According to the NTUF, the absence of safety measures at the Gadani beaching yards forces workers to carry out their duties under extremely dangerous conditions, which knowingly puts their lives at risk.
NGO Shipbreaking Platform also reported that there are claims that their bodies were clandestinely buried at night without any post-mortem examination, indicating an attempt to conceal the cause of death and protect the contractor and yard owner from liability.
For over two decades, we’ve persistently urged South Asian authorities to relocate the shipbreaking industry to designated areas with better facilities, ensuring worker safety and preventing pollution. Ignoring this urgent need risks more tragic loss of life.
… said Sara Rita da Costa, Project Officer, NGO Shipbreaking Platform
