More than 30 sewer and septic tank deaths have been reported so far in 2026; compensation paid in nine cases: NCSK

Representative image only. File | Photo credit: The Hindu

According to the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis (NCSK), as many as 31 people died while cleaning drains and septic tanks in 2026, with nine cases fully compensated.

Commission data showed that Haryana reported the highest number of deaths so far in 2026 – eight, followed by Maharashtra and Delhi with six each. Uttar Pradesh reported three deaths, while Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan recorded two each.

In 2025, 51 deaths were reported, with compensation fully paid in 28 cases. Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest number of deaths (10), followed by Haryana and Delhi with seven each. In 2024, 54 deaths were reported, of which 43 were fully compensated.

In the 11 years covered by the statement, 773 deaths were recorded and compensation was fully paid in 677 cases, according to the data. Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra recorded 100 deaths each during 2016-2026, followed by Uttar Pradesh with 98, Gujarat with 86 and Haryana with 85, according to NCSK data.

The annual statement, which covers the years 2016 to 2026, showed that 131 deaths were reported in 2019, the highest annual figure for the period. As many as 113 deaths were recorded in 2017 and 88 in 2022.

The commission said the data was compiled from information received from district and police offices, state governments and ministries and other official sources. It also takes note of incidents reported in print and electronic media by Safai Karamchari organizations, civil society groups and individuals.

NCSK said the data is dynamic and subject to revision as new information becomes available. It also clarified that it has no legal mandate to register or maintain a comprehensive database of all sewer and septic-related deaths and does not have a dedicated online portal to store this data.

Published – 20 Oct 2026 18:32 IST