Robust monitoring of environmental regulations and protection of labor rights are crucial for a just and sustainable transition in the construction industry.
This was the crux of a panel discussion titled “Socially and Environmentally Compliant Construction Industry in Pakistan” at the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) in collaboration with NED and SC. Geir Thomas Tonstol, the Country Director of the International Labor Organization, Pakistan, said that the construction sector transforms source materials into capital assets, contributing significantly to economic activity and thus holding immense potential for poverty reduction and income generation. However, he said, the lack of specialized skills and high risks of occupational hazards have made it one of the riskiest sectors globally.
The high prevalence of informal employment further weakens social security and workers’ rights, he said, adding that the government requires coordinated efforts, employers and workers, with initiatives focusing on promoting greater compliance and fostering decent working conditions in the construction industry in Pakistan. Dr. Saifullah from Development Impact Solutions, highlighting the hazardous working conditions in the brick kiln industry, said that out of 4.4-5.2 million brick kiln workers, 68% are doing bonded or forced labor, with 19% under 18. The industry employs an estimated 1.3 million workers, including 23% women, with 69% dedicated to molding.
He called for enhancing productivity by introducing new technologies to reduce occupational and environmental hazards. Mr. Khalid Mahmood, Director of the Labor Education Foundation, stressed the need to protect workers’ rights for a transition. Malik Najaf Khan from Sindh People’s Housing for Flood Affectees remarked that land rights are at the heart of the reconstruction efforts and called for empowering affected people through ownership, particularly for women and vulnerable households. Mr. Mehar Abdul Haq, Brick Kiln Owners’ Association Pakistan, called for eco-friendly technologies in kilns, such as Zig Zag, for emissions reduction, energy conservation, and enhanced environmental sustainability.
He also called for strengthening the registration of kiln workers with the government institutions concerned, particularly social protection institutions, and strict enforcement and compliance of labor laws, safety standards, and environmental regulations within the brick kiln industry. He suggested providing capacity-building training for brick kiln workers regarding environment-friendly and safer brick-making techniques, health safety, and labor rights and incentivizing the adoption of eco-friendly technologies.
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
