The senior office-bearers of the National Labour Federation (NLF) Sindh have expressed deep concern over the potential employment crisis looming in the bangle industry following the recent increase in gas prices. They have called upon the government to address this critical issue with the highest priority.
Highlighting the significance of the bangle industry in Hyderabad, NLF President Shakeel Ahmed Sheikh, Senior Vice President Qasim Jamal, General Secretary Muhammad Umar Shar, and others emphasised that Hyderabad is the only city in Pakistan where glass bangles are manufactured.
They said that millions of individuals, including a substantial number of women who sustain their livelihoods by crafting bangles and similar items in their homes, are associated with this industry. Regrettably, both the Sindh government and the Labour Dept have shown reluctance to address this issue, contributing to the gradual decline of this domestic industry.
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The NLF representatives stressed that if the upward trend in gas prices and persistent load shedding continues, the bangle industry, a symbol of Hyderabad, will face complete devastation. Millions of people dependent on this industry will be at risk of experiencing severe economic hardship.
Intervention of the govt is required to prevent the collapse of this vital sector and safeguard the livelihoods of those dependent on it.
Published in The Express Tribune, November 23rd, 2023.
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