PANJIM: The State government on Friday released 50 per cent of the total outstanding amount pending for payment to Drishti Lifesaving Pvt Ltd towards lifeguards services offered across the State beaches.
Hours after several lifeguards in Sinquerim-Calangute stretch went off duty protesting non payment of salaries on Thursday, Drishti issued a press statement claiming it was under ‘financial strain’ due to non-payment of Rs 12 cores from the government.
With partial payment made to the agency, the lifeguards have heaved a sigh of relief.
“The Company regrets the delay in salaries and dues which were because of circumstances beyond its control. Increment arrears from July 2019 are being processed and will be paid to all lifeguards including Captains and Supervisors who did not strike work. Arrears of all lifeguards present on duty yesterday (Thursday) will be paid today (Friday). Arrears of lifeguards present today (Friday) will be paid by the coming Monday,” reads a press statement by Drishti.
The lifeguards’ agency also declared Diwali bonus to be paid to its employees in November. “Bonus will be declared at Diwali and will be paid in November to employees who join duty. A few lifeguards who have not reported to work yesterday and today have been informed to join duty immediately,” it stated.
