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Delhi Buses Idle: Strike Cripples Commute
16 Sep
Summary
- DTC bus strike enters its second day, disrupting services.
- Drivers demand higher wages, medical benefits, and secure jobs.
- Six thousand five hundred DTC buses are currently affected by the strike.
Public transportation in Delhi experienced significant disruptions on Wednesday, marking the second day of a strike by Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) bus drivers. The ongoing industrial action has severely impacted bus services across the capital, leaving millions of commuters stranded and creating considerable hardship for students, officegoers, and daily wage earners.
Drivers, primarily those operating new electric buses, are demanding increased daily wages, improved medical facilities, and overtime payments. They also seek the removal of penalties for damaged buses. Union representatives have highlighted that contract drivers, some with decades of experience, are treated as unskilled laborers and receive lower pay compared to permanent DTC drivers.
The DTC Karamchari Ekta Union has appealed to the government to expedite the process of making contract driver and conductor jobs permanent and secure. They are also urging for immediate salary increases, including basic pay, dearness allowance, and grade pay. The union remains open to dialogue, provided their core demands regarding wages, medical coverage, and social security are addressed.
Commuters have resorted to social media to share their experiences of long waits and overcrowding at metro stations and bus stops. The strike affects approximately 6,500 DTC buses, significantly reducing public transport options. Those affected are advised to utilize the Delhi Metro, autos, or app-based cabs, though these alternatives may also experience increased demand and waiting times.
