Hyderabad: TGSRTC employees in Hyderabad staged protests across several depots on Friday following the death of driver Shankar Goud. Demonstrations took place at Jubilee Bus Station (JBS), Mahatma Gandhi Bus Station (MGBS), Jeedimetla, Musheerabad, Dilsukhnagar, and Hayathnagar.
Demands for Justice and Compensation
Around 35 to 40 RTC employees at JBS in Secunderabad raised slogans against the government, describing the death as a 'sacrifice' driven by frustration over unresolved demands. "The death of our fellow driver has exposed the mental and financial stress faced by RTC staff. Continued negligence of our demands by the government has pushed the situation to this point. Goud's family should be adequately compensated, and his children should be provided government jobs," said a driver at JBS.
Overtime and Working Conditions
Employees also protested at MGBS, where a conductor stated that despite working overtime—12 to 15 hours instead of the regulated eight hours—since the launch of the Mahalakshmi scheme, they are risking their lives daily. "We still have to manage our family expenses, children's education, and rising household costs, but our basic demands, such as job security and revised salaries, are not being addressed. How many more lives will it take for the government to respond?" he asked.
Intensification of Protests
The RTC employees warned that protests would intensify if their demands are not addressed immediately. "The agitation will intensify rather than weaken, with planned protest programmes, silent marches, and memoranda to political leaders," said another driver at MGBS. Employees also noted that salary appraisals have been pending since 2011, and they are awaiting 50% arrears under the 2013 PRC, though some have recently received payments. Bills for medical benefits during COVID-19 are also pending.
Union Leader's Statement
M Thomas Reddy, general secretary of the Telangana RTC Mazdoor Union, expressed frustration over the incident. He said that employees frequently question why they have not yet been brought under the government fold. "Despite overcrowded buses and other challenges, RTC staff have managed to make the Mahalakshmi scheme a success. So why is their future still uncertain?" he asked. He added that despite regularly submitting representations to both the corporation and the government, only assurances have been given. "It is time that the promise is fulfilled," said Reddy.
Impact on Commuters
Most RTC buses remained confined to depots at JBS, MGBS, and other parts of the city, leaving passengers stranded and forcing many to depend on private transport. A commuter at MGBS expressed dissatisfaction, stating that he had to wait for hours and finally take an auto at a much higher price.
Official Data and Metro Services
According to official data, around 65 lakh passengers use RTC buses daily, including nearly 45 lakh women. Meanwhile, HMRL continued to run frequent Metro services to handle the extra rush in the city.
