Punjab’s Wheels Grind to a Halt: 3000 Buses Off Road Amidst Privatization Row
Thousands of commuters in Punjab face immense hardship as nearly 3,000 state-run buses remain off the roads following a strike by employees. The strike, launched on August 13, 2025, is a direct response to the state government’s controversial plan to introduce private operators under a new kilometer scheme.
Punjab Roadways and Pepsu Road Transport Corporation (PRTC) employees are vehemently opposing the government’s move, fearing job losses and deterioration of public transport services. Unions are demanding immediate cancellation of the tenders awarded for the kilometer scheme.
Their demands also encompass several long-pending issues, including salary revisions and improved working conditions. The striking employees insist on a complete rollback of the privatization plan.
A high-stakes meeting between union leaders and state government representatives is scheduled to address the escalating crisis. The outcome will significantly impact public transport in Punjab and the livelihoods of thousands of employees.
The ongoing strike serves as a stark reminder of the challenges governments face when balancing fiscal prudence with the social impact of privatization, particularly in essential public services. The resolution of this conflict will have far-reaching implications for the future of public transport across the state.
