KOCHI: The recently set up Aawaz Cell providing medical insurance to migrant workers at the Aluva Railway station has evoked a tremendous response. The cell is the first-of-its kind functioning at a Railway station in the state.According to a release from the District Information Office (DIO) here, the Aawaz Cell began functioning at the Aluva station on Thursday.
"On the opening day, 120 insurance cards were issued to migrant workers who arrived at the Railway station. Seventy cards were distributed to the migrant workers at the Aluva station on a daily average. District Collector K Muhammad Y Safeerullah on Monday visited the Aawaz Cell to take stock," it said.
The cell manned by five officers from the Labour Department functions from 9 am-8 pm. The migrant workers arriving at the Aluva station are made aware of the insurance programme's benefits. On completing the documentation process, the insurance cards are issued.
Considering the heavy rush, the Labour Department has decided to make the cell operational 24 hours daily. The cell functions even on Sundays.The Aawaz card is issued after verifying the Aadhar card or any another valid ID proof. After entering the applicant's address, the retina scan and biometric imprints are recorded. Within five minutes, the insurance card is issued.
Aluva Railway station is the main transit point for migrant workers in Kerala and with the permission of Railways, the Aawaz Cell was launched there. Apart from it, the Labour Department teams are visiting labour camps for providing Aawaz cards. The insurance project was launched last year.