A major administrative reshuffle in Noida has triggered confusion among sanitation workers, leading to a brief strike and visible disruptions in waste collection across several sectors. The changes come after the Noida Authority merged its health department with zonal work circles in an attempt to improve accountability and streamline civic services.
New System, Multiple Bosses
Under the new structure, sanitation, drainage, sewer maintenance, and traffic responsibilities are now handled directly by work circle officials instead of a dedicated health department chain of command.
Workers say the transition has created operational confusion.
Earlier, sanitation staff reported to specific health department officials. Now, those cleaning multiple sectors must coordinate with different authorities simultaneously.
“Previously we reported to one department. Now each area falls under a different work circle — we don’t know whom to report to,” a sanitation worker said.
Protest by 1,500 Contract Workers
Nearly 1,500 contractual sanitation workers went on strike to oppose the new norms and demand:
●Regularisation of jobs
●Medical insurance coverage
●Clear reporting structure
●Better working conditions
The workers are largely employed through private agencies and say their concerns had been ignored.
Garbage Crisis Hits Several Sectors
The strike quickly affected daily life. Residents reported garbage piling up in multiple areas, including:
Sectors 34, 35, 50, and 51
Sector 27, where waste accumulated near a primary school
Residential blocks where trash blocked roads and created health risks
Residents expressed concern over hygiene, especially with warmer weather approaching.
Authority Steps In, Workers Resume Duty
Officials said talks were held with worker representatives, after which sanitation staff resumed duties. The Authority has announced several measures to ease tensions:
◆Identification of contact persons in each work circle
◆Proposal for medical facilities through an agency
◆Increased allowances for oil and soap
◆Distribution of raincoats before the monsoon
A coordination meeting scheduled to address confusion
Transition Still a Challenge
While officials argue the merger will reduce bureaucratic delays and prevent departments from shifting responsibility, workers maintain that ground-level clarity is essential for smooth functioning.
For now, services have resumed, but the episode highlights how administrative reforms — if not carefully implemented — can disrupt essential civic operations and impact residents across the city.
