Punjab Roadways and PRTC contract staff to strike from November 16
The Punjab Roadways, PUNBUS and PRTC Contract Workers Union announced a three-day strike over unfulfilled government assurances.
Contractual employees of Punjab Roadways, PUNBUS and PRTC have announced a three-day strike starting November 16, according to reports by Hindustan Times and The Tribune. The Punjab Roadways, PUNBUS and PRTC Contract Workers Union decided on the agitation during a state-level meeting at Isru Bhawan in Ludhiana.
The union alleged that the state government and transport department management failed to fulfil assurances given during a high-level meeting on October 29. State president Resham Singh Gill and founder Kamal Kumar stated that authorities had promised to place PUNBUS service rules before the cabinet to regularise contractual workers.
Union leaders also claimed that authorities agreed to convert outsourced employees into contractual staff under a legislative act dated August 14, 2026, but no action has been taken. Other demands include the withdrawal of police cases against 30 workers, equal pay for equal work, and the restoration of 37 discontinued allowances.
The workers are also opposing the expansion of the private kilometre scheme, which they say undermines public transport and reduces employment. Additional demands include a cashless health scheme and the proper execution of EPF and ESI benefits.
The union warned of an indefinite statewide strike if grievances are not resolved. Scheduled protests include a demonstration at Dirba on November 5 and rallies outside transport depots on November 10.