Chandigarh, June 1:- Representatives of the Tandoor Workers Union met Chandigarh Mayor Sh. Saurabh Joshi and apprised him of the long-standing issues being faced by traditional Underground Tandoor Workers across the city.

During the meeting, the union members stated that Underground Tandoors have been serving the residents of Chandigarh for more than 60 years and are an integral part of the city's traditional food culture. These underground tandoors, located in various parts of the city, continue to provide affordable and traditional cooking facilities to residents and have become a unique feature of Chandigarh's heritage.

The workers informed the Mayor that despite their long-standing contribution to society, many of them have not received adequate rehabilitation or welfare support. They further stated that although the Street Vendor Policy has been in force since 2014, several Underground Tandoor Workers have not been able to avail its benefits.

At present, 18 active Underground Tandoor Workers are operating in Chandigarh while strictly adhering to all prescribed rules and regulations, including proper waste disposal, environmental safeguards and maintenance of hygiene standards.

The workers also highlighted that despite the availability of various government welfare initiatives such as the PM SVANidhi Scheme, Ayushman Bharat Yojana and other vendor welfare schemes, many eligible workers remain deprived of these benefits due to procedural and administrative challenges.

Mayor Saurabh Joshi gave a patient hearing to the concerns raised by the workers and assured them that their grievances would be examined sympathetically. He emphasized that every section of society contributing to the city's economy and preserving its traditional culture deserves due consideration and access to government welfare schemes.

The Mayor further assured that efforts would be made to facilitate discussions with the concerned departments and stakeholders so that the genuine issues of Underground Tandoor Workers can be addressed in a time-bound manner. He also stressed the importance of ensuring that eligible workers receive the benefits of various welfare and social security schemes.

The members of the Tandoor Workers Union expressed gratitude to the Mayor for giving them an opportunity to present their concerns and for assuring support towards resolving their long-pending issues.