Some core issues still remain unresolved

Monira Munni | Published: April 24, 2015 00:00:00 | Updated: November 30, 2026 06:01:00

Even two years after the Rana Plaza collapse, some core issues including payment of rightful compensation to the victims and their families, proper implementation of labour law and workplace safety measures still remain unresolved.
At least 1,138 workers were killed and 2,500 others injured in the Rana Plaza building collapse on April 24 in 2013.
The worst-ever industrial accident also sparked an outcry both from local and international arena over poor working atmosphere and workers' rights in the country's ready-made garment (RMG) industry.
Although a number of initiatives have been taken and efforts are continuing, many promises still remain unfulfilled. However, safety measures are being improved with introduction of more stringent standards.
But some issues like debate over the total number of victims, missing workers and the time when the rests of the promises of financial support will be made still remain unsolved.
Even though many changes have been made in improving workplace safety, traumatised Rana Plaza survivors are suffering a lot until now.
They are still facing uncertainty over rebuilding their lives as they are yet to receive the promised financial support even when the country and many international organisations are set to observe its second anniversary today (Friday).
So far $21 million has been paid into the Rana Plaza Donors Trust Fund, but there is a $9.0 million gap and the contribution made by Benneton and Mango is insufficient, according to rights group.
Workers in the garment factories still allegedly face intimidation and harassment by employers, although the number of trade union registration went up significantly during the last two years.
munni_fe@yahoo.com