The Ashok Gehlot-led government in Rajasthan has prohibited manual scavenging of septic tanks or sewage chambers in the state.

In an order on Monday, the Rajasthan government directed officials concerned to ensure that septic tanks or sewage chambers are cleaned using machines.

“All district collectors and city corporation officials have been ordered to ensure that no worker has to get inside chamber for cleaning. This work should be ensured completely through machines. No incident of any death because of getting inside chamber for cleaning of sewerage should happen,” Ashok Gehlot, Rajasthan Chief Minister, mentioned.

The decision to prohibit manual scavenging of septic tanks or sewerage was welcomed by People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL).

In a statement, the PUCL mentioned, “This decision of the state government is extremely commendable and is a big victory for the cleanliness worker agitation.”

Ashok Gehlot also praised the work of cleanliness workers and credited them for their contribution towards preventing the spread of corona infection in the state.

“Because of the spirit of dedication with which cleanliness workers and people’s representatives of city corporations have worked, we have been successful in stopping the spread of corona infection. In the fight against corona along with doctors, nursing personnel, anganwadi workers and police, their effort has raised the stature and respect of Rajasthan in the country,” the Rajasthan Chief Minister mentioned.