Karnataka Constructs Rs 18 Crore Temporary Housing Complexes for Migrant Workers in Davanagere
The Karnataka Building and Other Construction Workers' Welfare Board is spearheading a significant initiative to address the accommodation crisis faced by migrant workers in Davanagere. Under the Shramik Nivas scheme, the board is constructing two well-equipped temporary housing complexes at JH Patel Layout, with a total project cost of Rs 18 crore. These facilities are specifically designed to provide shelter for construction and other workers who migrate to the district centre in search of employment opportunities.
Facility Details and Construction Progress
Two housing complexes are currently under construction, each capable of accommodating 264 workers, bringing the total capacity to 528 individuals. The project utilizes land from the 2 acres owned by the Workers Welfare Board at JH Patel Layout. One complex is nearing completion, with only painting and interior design work pending, and is expected to be inaugurated in April. The second complex is progressing rapidly, with construction reaching the completion of the second floor.
Each complex features two-storey buildings designed in an apartment style with dormitory arrangements. The facilities include spacious halls that can accommodate over 25 beds, with separate arrangements for men and women. Key amenities provided are:
- Cooking facilities
- Community toilets and bathrooms
- Dining hall on the ground floor
- Sleeping and resting areas
Addressing a Critical Need for Migrant Workers
Finding suitable accommodation has been a major challenge for construction workers arriving in Davanagere from Central Karnataka and other regions. Workers on monthly or daily wages often struggle to rent houses or rooms, while those coming with families typically reside near construction sites in dilapidated conditions lacking basic facilities.
District labour officer SR Aravind emphasized that migrant construction workers from other states, districts, and taluks can seek temporary shelter in these new complexes. The housing is designed according to Workers' Welfare Board regulations, ensuring proper ventilation, light, and community facilities.
Access and Broader Implementation
The temporary housing complexes will be exclusively available to construction workers, who can stay in the buildings by paying Rs 50 per day. This initiative represents a crucial step toward improving living conditions for migrant laborers, though officials note that while the new facilities will accommodate 528 workers, there are approximately 80,000 construction workers in the district.
Similar housing complexes under the Shramik Nivas scheme are already operational in several other Karnataka districts, including Bengaluru, Shivamogga, and Chamarajanagar, demonstrating the state's ongoing commitment to supporting its migrant workforce through structured accommodation solutions.
