Chandigarh/Punjab: Bus services across Punjab were affected as contract employees of Pepsu Road Transport Corporation (PRTC) went on strike, causing inconvenience to thousands of passengers. Due to the protest, several government buses remained off the roads, leaving commuters stranded at bus stands and forcing many to look for alternative travel options.

The strike by PRTC contract workers impacted daily transportation services in several parts of the state. Passengers travelling for work, education, medical appointments, and other important purposes faced difficulties due to reduced bus availability.

Contract Workers Demand Resolution of Long-Pending Issues

The protesting employees said they decided to stop bus operations because their demands have not been addressed by the authorities. The contract workers have been raising concerns related to job security, regularisation of services, salary issues, and other employment-related matters.

According to the employees, they have been working for several years but still face uncertainty regarding their jobs. They demanded that the government take concrete steps to improve their working conditions and provide a permanent solution to their problems.

The workers stated that they were forced to take the strike route after repeated discussions failed to bring satisfactory results. They appealed to the government to hold talks and resolve their issues at the earliest.

Passengers Face Major Inconvenience

The strike created problems for commuters across Punjab. Many passengers reached bus stands expecting regular services but had to wait for long hours due to fewer buses operating on routes.

Students, office employees, and daily wage workers were among those affected by the disruption. Many passengers had to depend on private buses, taxis, and other expensive modes of transport to reach their destinations.

Several travellers expressed frustration over the sudden disruption, saying that government bus services are an important and affordable option, especially for people from rural areas.

Transport Services Hit in Several Areas

The impact of the strike was visible at major bus stands across the state. With a significant number of contract employees joining the protest, operations were affected on several routes.

Officials faced challenges in maintaining normal services due to the shortage of available staff. The disruption also raised concerns about transportation arrangements for passengers who depend heavily on government buses for daily travel.

The workers said that they would continue their protest until the government takes positive action on their demands.

Government Urged to Hold Talks

The strike has put pressure on the Punjab government and transport authorities to find a solution. Employees’ unions have urged officials to start discussions and address their concerns through negotiations.

Transport services are considered a major public facility in Punjab, connecting cities, towns, and villages. Therefore, any prolonged disruption can create difficulties for a large section of the population.

Experts believe that resolving employee issues through dialogue can help restore normal bus operations and prevent similar situations in the future.

Contract Employees Highlight Their Role

The protesting workers said that contract employees play an important role in running the transport system. They claimed that drivers, conductors, and other staff members work under challenging conditions to ensure smooth bus operations.

However, they alleged that despite their contribution, they continue to face uncertainty regarding employment benefits and future security.

The employees demanded that the government recognise their services and take steps to improve their employment conditions.

Normal Services Awaited by Passengers

Meanwhile, passengers are waiting for the strike to end and normal bus services to resume. Many commuters hope that the government and employee representatives will reach an agreement soon to avoid further inconvenience.

The transport department may need to take immediate steps to address the concerns of contract workers and ensure uninterrupted public transportation in the state.

The PRTC contract workers’ strike has once again highlighted the challenges faced by temporary employees and the importance of maintaining essential public services. A quick resolution through talks could help bring relief to both employees and passengers across Punjab.