Chandigarh

Contract workers from Punjab Roadways, PUNBUS, and PRTC have strongly criticized the government over their unaddressed demands. Resham Singh Gill, the state union leader, stated in a press conference in Chandigarh that transport employees are dedicated to serving the public, yet their legitimate requests are being ignored.

The union argues that, despite Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s instructions, there has been no action taken to meet their needs. They express frustration over the government’s failure to procure new buses over the past three years, which has led to an increase in the dominance of private transport companies. The implementation of the kilometre scheme has reportedly caused financial mismanagement, further fueling union anger.

According to State Secretary Shamsher Singh Dhillon, Punjab should have at least 10,000 government buses based on its population, but currently faces a severe shortage. This lack of buses has resulted in daily accidents that impact drivers and conductors.

The union has made it clear that if their demands are not met, they will close bus stands across Punjab on October 15 and hold a sit-in outside the Chief Minister’s residence on October 22. They also warned of an indefinite strike if no resolution is found. The union alleges widespread corruption in the transport department, leading to significant losses for the government and depriving employees of their rights. They cautioned that unresolved issues could have repercussions for the government in the upcoming elections.