Miners Suffer Health Effects Seeking Marble
Makrana marble is recognized as being one of the most beautiful types of marble in the world. However, the miners who work to crave it suffer severe health effects. Rana Sengupta from the Mine Labor Protection Campaign in Rajasthan says that "the working conditions for the people in these quarries are extremely dangerous."
Each month, on average, three workers die and 30 are injured. While no health studies have taken place in the town, activists say that marble dust is absorbed by the body and causes respiratory diseases like silicosis and skin infections. “The workers as well as the residents complain of chest problems and skin diseases as these tiny particles of marble powder stick to the skin and are easily inhaled,” said Chandra Bhushan of the Center for Science and Environment. Miners do not say much; they admist that accidents occur but say families are generously compensated for any injuries.
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