Passengers feel the pinch of transport workers’ strike

Officials claim over 60% of buses are operated, but TU leaders put the figure at 10%

People from rural areas waiting for buses at Tirunelveli old bus stand on Tuesday.

While officials claimed that more than 60% of the State transport corporation buses were operated, the striking trade union leaders said only 10% of the buses were on road on Tuesday.

As more than 80% of the TNSTC staff participated in the strike on the second day, temporary drivers and conductors were appointed for operating the buses to various destinations.

“The administration has selected lorry and van drivers and those who are holding heavy vehicle driving licence for operating the buses, which will pose a serious threat to the safety of the passengers as well as other road users,” the union leaders said.

The number of buses being operated, however, was not adequate as huge crowds could be seen at bus stands, waiting for the buses for long.

Seizing the opportunity, the private buses being operated from Tirunelveli to Nagercoil, Tenkasi, Sankarankovil and other places were collecting excess fare, the passengers said.

“While ₹45 is the fare for the journey between Tirunelveli and Nagercoil on ‘End-to-End’ TNSTC buses, the private buses collect ₹55 to ₹60. When a private bus was operated to Madurai from Tirunelveli at 11 p.m. on Monday, the passengers had to pay ₹150 each against the normal fare of ₹ 105,” said D. Kamaraj, State vice-president, CITU.

Collector M. Karunakaran said more than 60% of the buses were operated. Route permits of the private buses would be cancelled if excess fare was collected. “Moreover, criminal action will be initiated against the bus owners,” he said.

“We’re not demanding salary hike. The government, which has misused our hard-earned money, especially retirement benefits, should disburse it immediately. Moreover, we urge the government to release adequate funds to save public transport sector from getting perished due to paucity of funds. The diesel subsidy, students’ passes grant, etc., should be released without further delay,” Mr. Kamaraj said.

The striking transport workers staged a demonstration in front of State Express Transport Corporation depot at Vannarpet.

“In Tirunelveli division, more than 3,000 workers participated in the demonstration organised in front of 15 depots in Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi districts. Members of central trade unions will stage a protest in front of Tirunelveli railway junction on Wednesday in support of the transport workers,” said Mr. Kamaraj.

Kanniyakumari

In Kanniyakumari district, only 35% of the buses were operated, but the officials claimed that they could ensure operation of more than 60% buses.