The strike had previously seen nearly 8,000 workers from 27 depots stay away from work, leaving passengers stranded across the state.

Relief for Passengers:  PRTC and Roadways Services to Resume Friday Morning 

In a significant relief for thousands of daily commuters, contractual workers of Punjab Roadways and the PRTC have called off their state-wide strike. The breakthrough came late Thursday following a successful second round of negotiations between a union delegation and Transport Department officials. Union leaders confirmed that drivers are returning to their duties, and the entire government bus fleet is expected to be fully operational by Friday morning.

The two-day strike, which coincided with a ‘Bharat Bandh’ organised by various trade and farm unions, had paralysed public transport across Punjab. The combined protests against labour laws and international trade deals led to massive traffic disruptions and road blockades, particularly in the Patiala region.

Harkesh Vicky, state vice-president of the PRTC Contractual Employees’ Union, stated that the protest was suspended after the government agreed to reinstate staff members who were terminated in November. Furthermore, the authorities have committed to the early release of 10 employees currently jailed since December.

While services are resuming, the union has issued a stern warning. Leaders emphasised that they are monitoring the situation closely and will not hesitate to relaunch the agitation if the government fails to honour its promises. The strike had previously seen nearly 8,000 workers from 27 depots stay away from work, leaving passengers stranded across the state.

Source: The Tribune