Telangana RTC Unions Press Government for Decisive Action at Monday Cabinet Meeting
In Hyderabad, the unions representing workers of the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (RTC) have made a fervent appeal to the state government. They are urging for clear and immediate decisions on a host of long-standing issues at the Cabinet meeting scheduled for Monday. The unions warn that continued delays in resolving these critical matters are not only escalating pressure on the employees but also severely undermining their morale and operational efficiency.
Key Demands and Concerns Raised by RTC Unions
In a detailed representation submitted to Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, union leader Raji Reddy highlighted several pressing concerns. A primary issue is the absence of recognized labour unions within the RTC for the past few years. This lack of formal representation, according to the unions, has created significant hurdles in voicing employee grievances, leading to increased workloads and heightened stress levels among the staff. The unions have emphatically called for the immediate restoration of these unions to facilitate better dialogue and advocacy.
Pending Merger and Salary Revisions
Another major point of contention is the long-pending merger of the RTC with the state government. Although approvals for this merger were granted earlier, the implementation date remains unannounced, causing uncertainty among workers. Raji Reddy emphasized that finalizing this merger is crucial for providing stability and clarity to the workforce.
On the financial front, salary revision remains a critical unresolved matter. The pay scale revision from 2021 is still pending implementation, while a new revision is already due to commence from 2025. Employees have urged the government to expedite the 2021 revision without further delay to address their financial hardships and ensure timely compensation adjustments.
Budget Allocation and Operational Challenges
The unions have also requested an increase in the RTC budget allocation for the fiscal year 2026–27. This enhanced funding is deemed essential to meet the corporation's operational needs, maintain service quality, and support infrastructure upgrades.
Regarding the introduction of electric buses, workers have expressed serious concerns. They fear that handing over the operations of these buses to private players could jeopardize the jobs of drivers and technical staff. The unions are advocating for the RTC to retain control over these operations, with necessary government support to ensure job security and smooth integration.
Retirement Benefits and Staffing Shortages
Pending retirement benefits and dues are another area of distress for RTC employees. Workers have demanded the immediate disbursement of these amounts to provide financial relief and honor their years of service.
Staff shortage is identified as a major operational challenge. Over time, approximately 17,000 posts have been reduced, yet services continue unabated, placing an excessive burden on the existing staff. This situation forces employees into double duties and limits their ability to take proper leave. The unions have stressed the urgent need for fresh recruitment to alleviate this workload and improve working conditions.
Call for Government Intervention
In summary, the RTC unions have urged the state government to take decisive actions at the upcoming Cabinet meeting. Resolving these issues is vital to reduce the growing dissatisfaction among employees and ensure the smooth functioning of public transport services in Telangana. The unions hope that prompt government intervention will restore confidence and stability within the RTC workforce.
