Kochi Lifeguards Threaten Protest Over Unpaid March Salaries Amid Tourism Surge
Lifeguards deployed by the tourism department across Kochi district have issued a stern warning of potential protest actions as they continue to await their March salaries. This delay persists even as staff members from other categories within the same department have already received their payments. The situation is particularly critical given the current surge in tourism activity at popular beaches like Fort Kochi and Puthuvype, which are experiencing a heavy influx of visitors with the onset of the summer vacation season.
Increased Workload and Financial Struggles
"With the start of the summer vacation, our workload has increased significantly. We need to patrol the beach under the blazing sun, ensuring visitor safety. However, our salary for March is still pending, despite important festive occasions like Easter and Vishu. We are struggling to make both ends meet as the prices of household items have risen due to the ripple effect of the gas crunch," revealed a lifeguard who spoke on condition of anonymity.
Across the state of Kerala, there are 180 lifeguards, with 26 currently deployed at beaches in Kochi district alone. This includes eight personnel specifically stationed at Fort Kochi beach. Despite the inherently risky nature of their job and their vital role in saving numerous lives, these lifeguards receive a daily wage of just Rs 730 and have not seen a pay increase for nearly a decade.
Additional Financial Burdens and Lack of Basic Amenities
Compounding their financial woes, despite promises of a uniform allowance that would cover related accessories, the lifeguards are forced to bear these expenses themselves. The cost amounts to approximately Rs 6,000 per person, adding to their financial strain. Furthermore, basic amenities remain inadequate at major tourism destinations. "The department constructed a toilet complex several months ago but has yet to open it to visitors or staff like us," another lifeguard disclosed.
Proven Safety Record and Official Response
The lifeguards' effectiveness is undeniable. "Currently, the tourism season is in full swing. Hundreds of tourists flock to Fort Kochi during weekends, especially Sundays. Yet, the number of casualties has decreased drastically. Earlier, there were 10 to 15 incidents of casualties per year, but after the deployment of lifeguards in 2012, only one or two instances occur annually," highlighted another lifeguard.
When contacted, a senior official from the regional office of the Department of Tourism attributed the salary delay to a shortage of funds. "We've submitted all the necessary papers to the headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram," the official stated, offering little immediate relief to the affected staff.
Historical Context of Lifeguard Deployment
The government first deployed lifeguards at Kovalam beach in 1986 to ensure the safety of visitors, particularly tourists. It was only 18 years ago that the initiative expanded to include beaches in other districts, marking a significant step in coastal safety measures across Kerala.
