MANSEHRA: Workers at the Dasu hydropower project ended their two-week long sit-in and resumed work after reaching an agreement with the Chinese company, facilitated by the chairman of the National Assembly’s parliamentary committee.

At the concluding session held at the deputy commissioner’s office, MNA Mohammad Idrees, chairman of the parliamentary committee, told the workers’ representatives, “We have resolved all your outstanding issues in accordance with the country’s existing labour laws. Now, it is your responsibility to contribute to the timely completion of this mega energy project.”

After the workers decided to halt their sit-in and start negotiations earlier this week, a number of sessions were held, attended by representatives of the workers, the Chinese company and Deputy Commissioner Upper Kohistan Tariq Ali Khan.

“We will not let anyone interfere with this important energy project’s seamless implementation. We must honour the Chinese nationals who are working on this project at all costs because they are our valued guests,” Tariq Ali Khan stressed.

Under the agreement, the Chinese company agreed to pay each worker a minimum wage of Rs 36,000 per month, with each shift lasting 12 hours. Additionally, workers would receive a 30-minute break during shifts for prayers and meals.

The agreement further stated, “The Company will not dismiss any worker as an act of retaliation for their participation in protests or sit-ins demanding their rights.” It also obligated both the company and workers to strictly follow all clauses and labour laws to foster lasting working relations.

Published in Dawn, December 22nd, 2024