The article, “An indelible blot on urban governance” (Some editions, March 26), which was also based on a dissertation, was moving as it highlighted the plight of manual scavengers.
It is high time the Central and State governments gave serious consideration to the mechanisation of drainage and conservancy work. While the machinery used in some instances for mopping is satisfactory, much needs to be done to avoid asphyxiation and skin infections.
Generation after generation has been inheriting the job as a family tradition, and the time has now come to set the next generation free. Let them find a new life and experience the joys of life. The MS Act 2013 must be implemented in its true sense and spirit.
S. Jahnavi Devi,
Thalli, Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu
