Struggling for Survival: Hard times spark rise in metallic substance sales

Shahariar Islam Sovon :

A growing number of low-income individuals are turning to the sale of metallic substances such as aluminum scraps, copper wiring, and other salvaged materials as a means of survival amid economic hardship.

With few employment opportunities and rising living costs, many families have found temporary relief by collecting and selling metals, often sourced from discarded electronics, construction debris, or factory waste. These materials are sold to local recycling centers or middlemen who resell them to manufacturing companies.

“I used to work at a garment factory, but after it shut down, I had no other option,” said Rafiq, a 45-year-old father of three. “Now, I collect metal scraps from garbage dumps. It’s dirty and dangerous work, but it feeds my family.”

Environmental experts have raised concerns about health and safety risks involved in handling these materials without proper protection. Prolonged exposure to metallic dust or working with sharp and toxic components can cause long-term health issues.

In some cases, the materials being sold also include substances like “argical” powders, believed to be used in informal construction or industrial processes. However, without regulatory oversight, the quality and safety of these substances remain uncertain.