KTC drivers and employees of AITUC staged a protest demonstration at Azad Maidan in Panjim advocating for the fulfilment of their pending demands. The protestors emphasised two primary demands during the protest: an increase in their monthly payment to a minimum of 30 thousand and the prompt signing of the 7th Pay Commission agreement with the union.
Furthermore, the protesters emphasized the need for the 7th pay agreement to be formally ratified, highlighting that while the pay has been implemented, it has not been officially endorsed by the workers. Another demand put forth was for an increase in the monthly wages of Kadamba bus drivers and conductors with over two years of service, from Rs. 18,000 to Rs. 30,000.
They also voiced opposition to third-party operators managing electric buses, advocating for the Kadamba corporation to take charge of operating these vehicles. With reports indicating the scrapping of approximately 150-200 buses out of a total fleet of 400, the protesters raised concerns about the impact on transportation services, particularly for students and residents of remote areas who heavily rely on these buses.
Additionally, the demonstrators called for the restoration of the provident fund rate, which was reduced from 12% without prior consultation with the workers. The protest action is set to continue until the government addresses their demands, with assurances that all bus routes will remain operational during the protest period. Those not on duty will continue their protest until the government fulfils their promises.
