Plight of Sri Lankan workers in Chinese-led project unveiled

Chinese infrastructure projects have become a significant source of employment for Sri Lankan workers in recent years. These projects, financed by the Chinese government's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), span various sectors, including construction, transportation, and energy. While the projects contribute to Sri Lanka's economic development, concerns have been raised regarding the working conditions and treatment of Sri Lankan workers employed by Chinese companies.

Local workers in Chinese projects often face lower wages and fewer benefits compared to their Chinese counterparts. This has led to accusations of unfair labor practices and exploitation. It was reported that the use of Mandarin Chinese as the primary language on-site creates communication barriers for Sri Lankan workers, leading to misunderstandings and difficulties in raising concerns. Workers often face restrictions in forming or joining unions, hindering their ability to collectively bargain for better working conditions.

Local workers demand fair wages and benefits commensurate with their skills and work experience, ensuring equal treatment compared to their Chinese counterparts.

Similarly, the challenges faced by Sri Lankan workers engaged in a Chinese-led project near Medawachchiya in the North Central Province have raised concerns. The China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC) is spearheading a significant project focused on constructing a deep tunnel irrigation system. However, disturbing reports of mistreatment, denial of meal breaks, and deceptive practices regarding EPF, ETF, and insurance schemes have emerged, casting a shadow on the project.

Approximately 600 workers employed by the local manpower partner, Sino Manpower, for the CSCEC project have come forward with grievances. Reports of physical assault and forceful removal by Chinese supervisors have triggered protests, shedding light on an unusual and alarming trend.

The project, initiated in February 2021, involves the construction of a groundbreaking 28 km 'Irrigation Tunnel' as part of the North Central Province Maha Ela Project. The aim is to divert water from the Moragahakanda and Kalu Ganga reservoirs to Rajarata, supporting eco-friendly development and rehabilitating 5,000 tanks. The project, estimated to conclude around 2025 with a cost of USD 244 million, is funded by the Government of Sri Lanka and the Asian Development Bank.

Despite promises made during the launch of the project, workers have reported being mistreated and denied fundamental rights such as breaks for meals and proper working conditions. The local representative, Sino Manpower, has been accused of neglecting workers' concerns, leading to protests in the North Central Province.

Contrary to the Irrigation Ministry's initial announcement of direct employment for 5,200 skilled and unskilled workers, reports suggest that unskilled workers and some skilled workers lack proper employment contract letters. This discrepancy has fueled discontent among the workforce.

Workers reveal opaque deductions for EPF and ETF, with no proper documentation provided for these deductions. Despite an 8% deduction for EPF, the company's contribution remains undisclosed. Additionally, promised insurance schemes appear to be nonexistent, raising concerns about the well-being of the workforce.

Efforts by workers to bring their grievances to the attention of the Chinese firm and the Mahaweli Authority have reportedly been ignored, prompting them to resort to strike action. The protests highlight not only mistreatment but also the lack of response to workers' fundamental concerns.

Workers' grievances 

Lalith Ramyasiri, a dedicated mason, devoted nine months to the project until his dismissal on 12 November due to his protest against mistreatment. Ramyasiri, responsible for the care of eight family members, including his mother battling cancer, is currently seeking odd jobs to support them.

Although his monthly net salary is around Rs 62,004.41, he takes home only approximately Rs 30,000 after the company deducts expenses such as the light bill, water bill, rent for the room, and spending on food items. Notably, 8 per cent is deducted as EPF contributions, but the company's contribution remains undisclosed. Additionally, despite assurances of an insurance scheme, it has not been executed, and Rs 250 is deducted for 'safety.'

Ramyasiri highlighted that the safety payment of Rs 250 is deducted, yet the company charges for taking workers to the hospital in case they are unable to return home. 

Initially praised for his work, Ramyasiri received a performance certificate from the Chinese company after completing three months. However, neither Ramyasiri nor any other workers were provided appointment letters. "We filled a form that asked for our name, address, any illness, etc., and that’s all," said Ramyasiri.

Working tirelessly within the tunnel, the workers barely get time for meals. Ramyasiri explained that they eat while on the move, rushed by Chinese supervisors who habitually kick them to resume work. Working at a depth of 90 feet inside the tunnel for almost five kilometers without access to water or tea presents an extreme challenge. They are denied breaks and forced to continue working.

Despite promises of an insurance scheme, it does not exist. Deductions for EPF and ETF are made, yet workers receive no proper documentation for these deductions, contrary to standard company procedures. Ramyasiri revealed that 11 others were also dismissed for demanding their rights.

After protests related to salary increases, a daily wage of Rs 1,200 was raised by an additional Rs 350, with an extra Rs 100 for overtime. However, those who spoke to the media, including Ramyasiri, were targeted. Emphasizing the need for the job due to its consistent daily pay, crucial for supporting his family, Ramyasiri appealed for assistance in reclaiming his job.

Despite having Sri Lankan supervisors from the concern Manpower, the workers claim they are indifferent to their concerns, allegedly prioritizing higher pay over addressing the workers' issues. Complaints to these supervisors yielded no action from the Chinese supervisors.

Call for action

The exploitation and mistreatment of workers on Chinese-led projects are a serious concern. These abuses must be addressed to ensure that these projects contribute to sustainable development and benefit both Sri Lanka's economy and its workforce. By taking concrete steps to protect workers' rights, the Sri Lankan government and Chinese companies can build trust and confidence among the workforce and ensure that these projects are conducted in a manner that is consistent with international labor standards.