The RIVER+ project has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting decent work by supporting 500 Informal Waste Workers (IWWs) through a package of essential protections. These included medical and accidental insurance, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and orientation sessions on health coverage and proper PPE use. For many IWWs, this marked their first access to any form of insurance or workplace protection—despite daily exposure to hazardous working conditions. This initiative is a significant step forward in raising awareness among stakeholders and communities about the need for improved working conditions and the fundamental rights of IWWs.
As part of a focused gender-responsive approach, the “Her Safety” intervention was implemented in two waste aggregation centers, creating safer, more inclusive workplaces for women. Two ‘Her Safety’ Committees received tailored support based on their specific needs—addressing basic, yet critical gaps in their work environment.
Srijana Devi Bishwokarma, an IWW at Shrijanshil Traders, shared how something as simple as receiving safe water bottles and lunch boxes made a significant difference:
“We used to wash mineral water bottles found in the trash just to have something to drink from. And we brought our lunch in plastic boxes. Now, with proper bottles and lunch containers, it’s so much safer and healthier.”
In another milestone, two WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) facilities—including one disability-friendly toilet—were installed at the centers, complete with daily consumable supplies.
Srijana added: “We didn’t have toilet facilities before and had to rely on neighbors or public toilets. They often locked them and wouldn’t let us use them. With 20 women at our center, it was really hard—especially during menstruation. Now, with our own WASH facilities, life has become so much easier.”
These interventions represent critical progress toward inclusive, healthy, and secure working environments. They are rooted in the belief that all workers—including those in the informal sector—deserve dignity, protection, and respect.
