The Untold Stories of Sanitation and Waste Workers

Rahim Uddin (40) has spent the last 15 years cleaning sewers by entering through manholes. He earns around 12,000 to 15,000 taka per month by doing this work. His work is vital and equally difficult. Many times, he faces injuries including cuts. Rahim often runs a fever after completing the work. “Breathing inside the sewer is tough, and sometimes I feel dizzy,” said Rahim. Considering the huge risks associated with the job, Covid-19 also adds stress to the working condition.