The Hindu Editorial Summary
Editorial Topic : Factory accidents in India
GS-3 Mains Exam : Disaster Management
Revision Notes
Question : Examine the causes behind the frequent industrial disasters in India, particularly in Maharashtra, and discuss the role of inspection processes in preventing such accidents.
Context:
- Frequent industrial disasters highlight the need for stricter inspection processes.
- A May 2024 reactor explosion in a Dombivli (Maharashtra) chemical factory caused casualties, injuries, and property damage.
- Similar accidents occurred in 2016, 2018, 2020, and 2023.
Poor Inspection Rates:
- Maharashtra (2021):
- Only 23.89% of hazardous factories (1,551 out of 6,492) inspected.
- Only 8.04% of registered factories (3,158 out of 39,255) inspected.
- Reasons for low rates:
- Shortage of inspectors (Maharashtra: 39.34% vacancy rate).
- High workload for existing inspectors.
- Low prosecution rates (Gujarat: 6.95%, Maharashtra: 13.84%, Tamil Nadu: 14.45%).
Employer Concerns:
- Employers criticize the current system as “inspector-raj,” implying harassment and bribery.
Flawed Reform Attempts:
- Recent reforms like self-certification, randomized inspections, and third-party certification violate International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention 81 (1947).
- The ILO requires:
- Sufficiently qualified & well-equipped inspectors.
- Unannounced inspections to ensure compliance.
Recommendations:
- Implement ILO Convention 81 for strong labour market governance.
- Increase the number of qualified inspectors.
- Shift inspector role from solely “inspecting” to also “facilitating” compliance through guidance.
Penalties for Enforcers:
- A system penalizing non-compliant inspectors is needed.
Conclusion:
- The government has a duty to ensure safe working environments.
- Reforms should focus on efficiency and ethical conduct within the inspectorate.
The Hindu Editorial Summary
Editorial Topic : Preventing Stampedes at Public Gatherings in India
GS-3 Mains Exam : Disaster Management
Revision Notes
Question : Critically evaluate the role of infrastructure and venue design in preventing stampedes at public gatherings in India. Suggest improvements to enhance safety.
Context:
- The recent stampede at a religious congregation in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh (over 120 deaths) highlights the need for improved safety measures.
- Stampedes at public gatherings are a recurring tragedy in India.
Causes of Stampedes:
- Overcrowding
- Inadequate crowd management
- Lack of preparedness
Preventive Measures:
- Enhanced Infrastructure and Venue Design:
- Ensure sufficient entry/exit points, wide passages, and clear signage.
- Designate seating and standing areas to avoid overcrowding.
- Advanced Crowd Management:
- Employ trained crowd control personnel.
- Utilize technology (crowd monitoring systems, CCTV) to manage crowds.
- Public Awareness and Education:
- Educate attendees on orderly conduct, following instructions, and staying calm.
- Promote a culture of mutual assistance and responsibility.
- Regulatory and Legal Framework:
- Enforce strict regulations and guidelines for event organizers.
- Ensure compliance with safety standards (crowd capacity limits, emergency plans).
- Conduct regular inspections and audits of venues.
- Emergency Preparedness and Response:
- Have a well-defined emergency response plan.
- Ensure trained medical personnel, accessible first aid stations, and clear evacuation protocols.
- Conduct regular drills and simulations.
- Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement:
- Involve government agencies, event organizers, venue owners, and local communities.
- Share resources and coordinate efforts for comprehensive safety strategies.
Conclusion:
Stampedes are preventable. Proactive measures and collective action are key to ensuring the safety of attendees at public gatherings.
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