Tamil Nadu Moves Ahead with Plan to Create 50 Rest Centres for Construction Workers

Tamil Nadu is taking a significant step toward improving the welfare of construction workers by planning 50 dedicated rest centres across the State. The initiative, developed by the Labour Department, aims to provide safe, hygienic and accessible resting spaces for thousands of labourers who spend long hours at construction sites and often lack basic amenities.

The Greater Chennai Corporation is leading the pilot phase of this initiative, identifying locations in high-mobility clusters where construction workers typically gather. As part of this first phase, the civic body has shortlisted three zones in the city, including Thiru.Vi.Ka. Nagar, Anna Nagar and Kodambakkam. These locations were chosen based on footfall, ongoing construction activity and the presence of labour communities that depend heavily on public spaces for rest during work hours.

Each rest centre is designed to include basic but essential facilities such as seating, fans and toilets. These amenities are aimed at ensuring that construction workers have a clean and comfortable place to take breaks, especially during peak daytime heat. Officials confirmed that the design work is currently in progress and will incorporate practical specifications that match the needs of daily-wage labourers.

The Labour Department has also revealed that budgeting for the project is being finalised. Once the approvals are in place, construction work is expected to progress quickly under the supervision of local urban bodies. A total of 46 sites have already been identified across Tamil Nadu for future phases, spanning major cities and municipalities including Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruppur, Salem and Tambaram.

The move comes at a time when the State is actively exploring ways to support gig and informal sector workers. In 2025, the Greater Chennai Corporation introduced 24-hour lounges for gig workers, marking a shift toward inclusive welfare infrastructure. The upcoming rest centres for construction labourers are expected to further enhance this effort by addressing a long-standing need in the construction sector.

Once completed, these rest centres will act as essential support hubs, providing dignity, safety and basic comfort for workers who play a crucial role in building Tamil Nadu’s growing urban landscape.