Punjab, January 3:
The Punjab Roadways Transport Corporation (PRTC) and Punjab Contract Workers’ Union have announced a statewide bus strike from January 6 to January 8, bringing public transport services to a halt. The strike, declared by union leaders, comes in response to the Punjab government’s alleged inaction on long-pending demands regarding job security and employment conditions.
Union representatives claim that repeated discussions with the government have failed to deliver tangible solutions, leaving them with no alternative but to protest. As part of their agitation, the unions have also planned a gherao (blockade) of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s residence on January 7 to press their demands.
The strike is expected to directly impact daily commuters across Punjab, as no buses will operate during the three-day period. Union leaders, however, argue that their decision is unavoidable given the government’s lack of seriousness in addressing their grievances.
“Our demands have been ignored despite numerous assurances and meetings. This protest is our last resort to compel the government to take action,” said Ramesh Singh, a union leader.
The unions have also highlighted that the issues being raised, including regularisation of services and fulfillment of past promises, have been pending for years. While the strike may cause inconvenience to the public, union representatives insist that their cause is justified and critical to the welfare of workers.
With no resolution in sight, the upcoming days are likely to witness significant disruptions in Punjab’s transport network.
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