Relief for passengers as Punjab Roadways, Punbus contractual workers call off strike

The Roadways workshop witnessed protests for the third consecutive day on Monday, as employees continued their sit-in against the government’s decision not to cancel the tenders issued under the kilometre scheme and over the suspension of contractual staff. However, late in the evening, the employees called off the strike and decided to resume bus services. Due to the agitation, Punbus operations remained halted for the third day, causing inconvenience to commuters and adding to employee resentment.

While addressing the protesters, leaders of the Punbus Contractual Employees’ Union accused the government of ignoring the interests of Punjab Roadways and Punbus workers. They alleged that the kilometre scheme — under which private buses are hired on a per-kilometre basis — was weakening the state-run transport system. Workers said the refusal to withdraw these tenders has fuelled anger across depots.

Union members representing contractual employees stated that the government suspended several staff members on November 29, and despite assurances, none have been reinstated so far. They said that even after Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s remarks indicating that suspensions would be reviewed, no official order had been issued, deepening dissatisfaction among the workforce.

A crucial meeting between the Punjab Transport Minister and employee representatives was held in the evening, during which Transport Minister Laljeet Singh Bhullar assured that all suspended employees would be reinstated. Employees said they were hopeful that the day’s talks would bring a favourable decision. “We welcome the decision and will resume services from Monday morning,” they announced.