"Migrant workers in Chennai subjected to long duty hours: T.N. Planning Commission study", 7 April 2025

A study conducted by the State Planning Commission (SPC) has found that migrant workers are subjected to long working hours, with 53% of them working for more than eight hours a day. A majority of the migrant labourers in the construction sector work for nearly 10 hours a day. When it comes to manufacturing, half of them work for more than eight hours a day. In the services sector, they work for up to 12 hours a day.

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One of the biggest concerns is that around 84% of the workers surveyed are employed without any written contract. Many do not receive any allowance/non-wage payment for food, travel or medical purposes from their employers. They also do not receive any social security benefits such as the Provident Fund, health insurance, and paid medical leave. Those in the construction sector have reported worksite hazards. Over half of the migrant workers live in deplorable conditions at their workplace. Eight out of 10 migrant workers live in kutcha or semi-pucca houses with minimal amenities. Despite the poor quality of housing, a migrant worker typically spends about 15% of his/her monthly income on rent. Access to toilets is another significant issue, with many workers having to rely on shared toilets.

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According to the analysis done by the SPC, on an average, the monthly earnings of a migrant worker in Chennai region in 2024 was ₹15,902 — marginally higher than the income required for a family of four to remain above the poverty line, estimated to be ₹14,556 per month. Migrant workers say they have gained a lot after moving to Chennai region.