PRTC employees hold signs demanding fair wages and improved working conditions outside a bus depot during a peaceful strike.
Punjab Roadways, PRTC Strike
The ongoing strike by Punjab Roadways, PRTC, and PUNBUS contractual employees has officially ended after a crucial meeting with Punjab Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar. The employees, who had been protesting against the Kilometre Scheme and demanding job security, have agreed to resume duties following assurances from the state government.
Why the Employees Were on Strike
The contractual staff launched a statewide strike opposing the Punjab government’s Kilometre Scheme, which they alleged would:
- Encourage backdoor privatization,
- Reduce the role of state-run transport,
- Threaten existing contractual jobs,
- Lead to exploitation of drivers and conductors by private operators.
The strike severely affected daily commuters, leaving hundreds of government buses off the roads.
Key Outcomes of the Meeting with Transport Minister Bhullar
After a prolonged meeting between employee union leaders and Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar, the following decisions were reached:
1. Reinstatement of Suspended and Dismissed Employees
The government agreed to withdraw suspension and termination orders issued during the strike period.
2. Release of Arrested Union Members
Union leaders and workers detained during protests will be released, and all legal actions will be eased.
3. Job Security Assurance
The Minister assured that contractual employees’ jobs are not under threat, addressing their primary concern.
4. Plan to Introduce 1,000 New Buses
The Punjab government announced a proposal to add 1,000 new buses to strengthen the public transport system.
5. Unions Agree Not to Obstruct the Kilometre Scheme
Employee unions agreed to cooperate with the scheme while continuing discussions on improving working conditions.
Bus Services Restored Across Punjab
Following the agreement, Punjab Roadways and PRTC have resumed operations. Passenger services, which were heavily affected, are now returning to normal. The government emphasized balancing employee welfare with uninterrupted public services.
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Background: What Led to the Strike
- Contractual employees from Punjab Roadways, PRTC, and PUNBUS opposed the Kilometer Scheme.
- Over 22 staff members were fired, and multiple employees were arrested during protests.
- Bus services remained heavily disrupted for several days.
- Passengers across major cities like Ludhiana, Patiala, and Sangrur were stranded.
The situation escalated until government intervention facilitated negotiations.
Future Challenges & What to Expect
While the strike has ended, several issues remain under discussion:
- Long-pending demand for regularisation of contractual workers
- Better wages and improved service conditions
- Proper oversight on private operators under the Kilometre Scheme
The government has assured continued dialogue to resolve these matters.
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