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For millions of Indian families, the promise of higher wages and a better future continues to outweigh the dangers
Most Indians in the Gulf are employed in physically demanding sectors such as construction, infrastructure, oil and gas, transport, manufacturing, cleaning and industrial maintenance. (AI-Generated Image)
Every week, an average of three Indians lose their lives in workplace accidents across the Gulf. The latest data shared by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in Parliament paints a grim picture of the risks faced by one of India’s largest overseas workforces. Yet, despite the dangers, lakhs of Indians continue to migrate to the Gulf every year in search of better-paying jobs.
So why do these deaths keep happening? Why do Indians continue to take these jobs despite the risks? And what happens when an Indian worker dies abroad?
Why Are So Many Indians Dying At Work In The Gulf?
Most Indians in the Gulf are employed in physically demanding sectors such as construction, infrastructure, oil and gas, transport, manufacturing, cleaning and industrial maintenance. These occupations involve working at heights, operating heavy machinery, handling hazardous equipment and spending long hours outdoors, increasing the likelihood of fatal accidents.
Extreme weather adds to the danger as temperatures in several Gulf countries routinely cross 45-50°C during summer. While many countries have introduced mid-day work bans during peak summer months, workers still spend extended periods outdoors before and after restricted hours. Heat stress, dehydration and exhaustion significantly raise the risk of accidents and medical emergencies.
Apart from this, the Gulf continues to witness a construction boom: from Saudi Arabia’s futuristic NEOM city to new airports, metro systems and housing projects across the UAE, Qatar and Oman.
These mega projects require large numbers of migrant workers, many of whom are Indians. The scale and pace of construction inevitably increase exposure to workplace hazards.
While workplace safety has improved in several Gulf countries over the past decade, enforcement varies across sectors and employers. Large multinational firms often follow stringent international safety protocols, but smaller contractors and subcontractors may not always maintain the same standards, leaving workers more vulnerable.
Why Do Indians Keep Going Despite The Risks?
For many families, migration to the Gulf is less a choice than an economic necessity.
The salary difference is significant. A worker earning Rs 20,000-30,000 a month in India may earn two or three times that amount in the Gulf, even in semi-skilled jobs.
For families in states such as Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Telangana and Rajasthan, those earnings can mean better education for children, healthcare, home construction and debt repayment.
India is the world’s largest recipient of remittances, with Gulf countries accounting for a substantial share of the money sent home. For millions of households, the income earned abroad is the primary source of financial stability.
Also, migration itself is expensive. Workers often take loans or pay recruitment agents before securing overseas jobs. Returning home without completing their contracts could leave families burdened with debt, making many reluctant to quit even when working conditions are difficult.
What Happens If An Indian Worker Dies Abroad?
When an Indian national dies overseas, a series of legal and diplomatic procedures are initiated.
The employer or local police usually report the death to authorities, who determine the cause of death and complete legal formalities. The Indian embassy or consulate is then informed and the family is contacted. Indian diplomatic missions work with local authorities and employers to trace and inform the worker’s next of kin in India.
Embassies also assist families in understanding documentation requirements and available financial support. After legal procedures, including post-mortem examinations where required, the mortal remains are transported to India.
The costs may be borne by the employer, insurance coverage or, in certain cases, supported through the Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF) administered by Indian missions abroad.
Whether a family receives compensation depends on several factors such as the country’s labour laws, the worker’s employment contract, insurance coverage, and whether the death occurred during the course of employment.
If negligence or a workplace accident is established, employers may be liable to pay compensation under local labour regulations.
Indian missions assist families with death certificates, insurance claims, compensation procedures, legal coordination and repatriation formalities, though the process can sometimes take weeks depending on local investigations.
A Complex Problem
India has an estimated nine million-plus citizens living and working across the Gulf, making them one of the largest expatriate communities in the region.
The latest MEA figures underscore the risks they continue to face. But they also highlight a difficult reality: for millions of Indian families, the promise of higher wages and a better future continues to outweigh the dangers.
About the Author
Apoorva Misra is a News Editor at News18.com with a keen interest in politics and current affairs. She loves uncovering fresh angles and telling stories through long-form features and explainers. Foll…Read More
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