"Left behind no more: Kerala integrates migrant workers into disaster preparedness,"

Kerala, known for its superior living standards and attractive employment opportunities, has long been a magnet for migrant workers from across India.

Officially recognised as “guest workers” by the state, these labourers are a crucial pillar of Kerala’s economy. Despite their contributions, they remain among the most vulnerable during disasters — trapped by social, economic, and logistical barriers.

Recognising this critical gap, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) is taking a significant step forward.

For the first time, migrant workers are being actively integrated into disaster preparedness and response strategies, ensuring they are not just contributors to Kerala’s growth but also protected members of its society in times of crisis...

A new guideline by the KSDMA highlighted the glaring vulnerabilities of migrant workers during disasters, exposing systemic gaps that leave them among the most affected yet least protected.

Despite being an integral part of Kerala’s workforce, guest workers often lack access to early warnings due to language barriers, habitats in disaster-prone areas with poor infrastructure, and struggle with identity loss and mobility restrictions in the aftermath of calamities.

...