Punjab Roadways Workers Threaten Indefinite Strike Over Unmet Demands

Punjab Roadways, PUNBUS, and PRTC contract workers have launched a strong protest against the government for ignoring their demands. Despite Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's directives, employees' issues remain unresolved. Union leaders threaten a statewide bus stand closure and indefinite strike if demands are not met soon.

Contract workers of Punjab Roadways, PUNBUS, and PRTC have launched a fierce protest against the government, demanding attention to their unmet needs. Union state head Resham Singh Gill, in a Chandigarh press conference, highlighted that transport employees serve the public devotedly, yet their legitimate demands are continually overlooked.

The labour union emphasized that despite Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's instructions, employees' demands have not been met. The government has also failed to procure new buses for the past three years, increasing the influence of private transport companies. The kilometre scheme's implementation has led to fund misappropriation, fueling the union's anger.

State Secretary Shamsher Singh Dhillon pointed out that Punjab should have at least 10,000 government buses given its population, but there remains a significant shortage, resulting in daily accidents impacting drivers and conductors. The union has warned of a statewide bus stand closure on October 15 and a sit-in outside the Chief Minister's residence on October 22 if demands are unfulfilled.

The union further vowed to initiate an indefinite strike if a resolution is not found. They allege widespread corruption in the transport department, causing substantial government treasury losses and depriving employees of their rights. The union warned that failing to meet their demands could have electoral repercussions for the government.

(With inputs from agencies.)