Scavengers -- better known as ‘Kawadi walas' -- are known for their vexatious yells. They earn their living selling scrap metal, glass bottles or paper. Sanjay Jaiswal, 40, is one such scavenger. Originally from Motihari - India, Jaiswal calls Kathmandu his home. He’s been sharing space with the residents of the city since his childhood. He recalls starting work as a scrap collector from just 13. Jaiswal says, “When you are poor, and struggling is your only option in life, even the toughest of jobs appears easy.”
Cycle tour organized to promote homestay
Currently, Jaiswal switches between scavenging, delivering vegetables, and selling puffed rice and fritters at Naxal. He says, “I have a large family with four daughters and two sons. With my savings, I have bought some land in India, where my parents still live, but I don’t have anything planned for the future. All I wish for is to be able to fulfill my family’s needs.”
