Pakistani Garment Workers Suffer Extreme Heat, Lack of Safety
Summary
Garment workers in Karachi are fainting, struggling to breathe, and losing wages as extreme heat and poor factory safety conditions hit Pakistan’s export industry. Labor activists say international brands and local suppliers must do more to protect workers as climate change intensifies heat risks.
Key Points
- Workers in Pakistan’s garment factories say extreme heat and poor safety conditions are causing fainting, breathing problems, and wage losses.
- Many of the factories produce goods for international brands including Zara and Mango.
- Workers report a lack of cold water, ventilation, rest breaks, and temperature monitoring equipment.
- A Sindh government spokesperson acknowledged challenges in enforcing labor rules, while activists say brands must hold suppliers accountable.
