As many as 31 people have died while cleaning sewers and septic tanks across India so far in 2026, but compensation has been fully paid in only nine cases, according to data from the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis (NCSK).
Haryana reported the highest number of deaths this year, with eight cases, followed by Maharashtra and Delhi, which recorded six deaths each. Uttar Pradesh reported three deaths, while Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan recorded two deaths each.
The figures highlight the continuing deaths of sanitation workers involved in hazardous sewer and septic tank cleaning, as well as gaps in compensation for affected families.
773 Deaths Recorded Between 2016 and 2026
According to the NCSK, a total of 773 deaths linked to sewer and septic tank cleaning were recorded between 2016 and 2026. Compensation was fully paid in 677 cases.
Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra recorded the highest number of deaths during this period, with 100 each. Uttar Pradesh followed with 98 deaths, while Gujarat reported 86 and Haryana recorded 85.
The year-wise data showed that 2019 recorded the highest number of deaths, at 131. A total of 113 deaths were reported in 2017, while 88 were recorded in 2022.
51 Deaths Reported in 2025
In 2025, 51 deaths were reported across the country, with compensation fully paid in 28 cases.
Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest number of deaths, at 10, followed by Haryana and Delhi, which reported seven each.
In 2024, the country recorded 54 deaths related to sewer and septic tank cleaning. Compensation was fully paid in 43 cases, according to the Commission.
NCSK Says Data Is Subject to Revision
The National Commission for Safai Karamcharis said its figures were compiled using information received from district and police authorities, state governments, government departments and other official sources.
The Commission also takes into account incidents reported by print and electronic media, sanitation workers’ organisations, civil society groups and individuals.
However, the NCSK clarified that the figures are dynamic and may change as new information becomes available.
It also said it does not have a statutory mandate to register or maintain a comprehensive database of all sewer and septic tank-related deaths. The Commission further clarified that it does not operate an exclusive online portal for maintaining such data.
