The Indian Bullion and Jewellery Association has asked the Maharashtra government to provide alternative accommodation to 70,000 workers before moving them out of their present location in the most crowded region in Mumbai.

Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra, had ordered a detailed probe into the recent fire and collapse of an old building in the ‘C’ ward where workers use tiny rooms to make jewellery.

A fire brigade report revealed that the blaze was caused by some unlicensed workers making jewellery without safety measures.

Four fire brigade personnel died in the accident. Following the report, the Bombay Municipal Corporation has already started conducting raids at jewellery workshops in the region and sealing them.

Mohit Kamboj, President, IBJA, said it is for the government to find an alternative place for jewellery workshop in a safe and secure area as these workers cannot be moved overnight.

‘Protecting heritage’ “They have been operating in the area for over 100 years now and are protecting the heritage culture of man made jewellery,” he said.

It is in the interest of the State government to accommodate these workers in a safe environment as they are the vital part to promote ‘Make in Maharashtra’ plan, he said.

The Association has already submitted a proposal to government to allot 500 acres of land near Mumbai to set up Jewellery and Knowledge Park.

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