INFORMAL URBAN LIVELIHOODS AND ENVIRONMENTAL INEQUALITY: OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH RISKS AMONG WASTE PICKERS IN GHAZIABAD, INDIA

The present study seeks to examine the effects of hazardous working conditions at urban landfills on the health status of waste pickers in Ghaziabad, India. The study identifies the factors of resilience and health concerns experienced by scavengers at work. It also aims to understand the specific difficulties and health consequences they experience. Finally, the impact of selected socio-economic factors on the subjective well-being of the respondents is indirectly explored, as this can be considered an indication of their socio-economic status and perceived quality of life. Data were obtained via four primary surveys carried out in 2023. To determine the immediate health impact of waste pickers' occupations, the following biometric tests were conducted: BMI, oximeter readings, blood pressure, pulse rate, chronometer readings, body temperature and general well-being. Data were collected in several phases using standardised questionnaires and biometric tests. A series of in-depth interviews and group discussions were also conducted to gain insight into the daily rituals, working practices, and challenges faced by waste pickers. We also observed them directly at work in landfills to understand the factors enabling them to perform this health-risking work in the long term. In the statistical analysis, descriptive statistics, the chi-square test, and the two-proportion z-test were employed to assess the relationship between waste pickers and selected health indicators. Another level of statistical testing was also performed to determine whether the proportion of waste pickers is significantly higher than that of the control group (non-waste pickers) in terms of well-being, i.e. health and socio-economic indicators. The results revealed that the health status of the waste pickers was statistically significantly worse than that of the control group. This included a higher prevalence of skin, respiratory and musculoskeletal problems, as well as poorer dietary habits and higher alcohol and tobacco consumption. Key risk factors identified were low levels of education, low income and inadequate protective equipment at work. Our findings demonstrated a pronounced adverse effect of working and living conditions on the health of waste pickers. This highlights the need to introduce preventive measures, improve access to healthcare, and strengthen social protection for this marginalised group. These findings also could contribute to the planning of urban development in Indian cities, with the aim of improving living conditions by applying environmental justice principles.