Three Indian cities customise uniforms for safai mitras’ comfort

Bengaluru-based non-profit Hasiru Dala launched an open-source Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) kit for waste workers in August 2025. The design, created with Foley Design, was piloted with over 100 workers and includes cut-resistant dry waste gloves, extended-arm wet waste gloves, and masks with air filters for textile waste. Hasiru Dala made the design freely available on its website. The initiative aims to scale up, with at least 35 Dry Waste Collection Centres in Bengaluru expected to receive the kits soon, according to thehindu.com.

Indore Municipal Corporation took a different route in 2021. When the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs urged urban local bodies to adopt new uniform standards, Indore sought an exception to design uniforms based on worker feedback. Female safai mitras preferred saris made of durable modal fabric, while men wanted t-shirts, laceless shoes, and wrap stoles instead of masks. Gloves were customised for better grip. Shraddha Tomar, solid waste management officer, said over 80% of the city's roads are swept manually, and comfortable attire gives workers dignity.

The PPE kit design was developed with informal waste workers in Bengaluru. Anupriya S, project lead at Hasiru Dala, said the aim is to create impact in the informal sector. After piloting, workers undergo training before receiving the kits. Indore often conducts competitions for safai mitras, such as 'Sabse neat, apna beat', where residents vote for the best worker based on cleanliness and behaviour.