Bengaluru: Public transportation across Karnataka ground to a halt on Tuesday as employees of the state’s road transport corporations launched an indefinite strike, leaving thousands of commuters stranded. The action, led by the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) Staff and Workers’ Federation, proceeded despite an interim stay issued by the Karnataka High Court, which urged unions to postpone the strike to avoid disrupting essential services.
The strike stems from long-standing demands for wage revisions and the clearance of 38 months’ worth of salary arrears. Talks with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah collapsed after the government offered to settle only 14 months of dues, citing recommendations from a one-man committee. H V Anantha Subbarao, president of the KSRTC Staff and Workers’ Federation, expressed dissatisfaction, stating, “We are not satisfied. The strike will begin as planned. We want full 38 months’ arrears.” The government’s proposal of ₹718 crore to cover partial arrears was rejected, with unions also pushing for a 25% salary hike until 2027.
Commuters faced significant disruptions in major cities like Bengaluru, Mysuru, Hubballi, Dharwad, Kalaburagi, Raichur, Shivamogga, and Chikkamagaluru, where bus services were either suspended or severely limited. Many passengers turned to autorickshaws, cabs, or Namma Metro, though some reported exorbitant fares. The state government advised IT companies to implement work-from-home policies and permitted private operators to run vehicles to ease commuter strain, though response to temporary permits has been lukewarm.
KSRTC Managing Director Akram Pasha emphasized that transport is an essential service under the Karnataka Essential Services Maintenance Act, warning of disciplinary action and a “no work, no pay” policy for striking employees. BMTC Managing Director R Ramachandran urged workers to reconsider, noting the Chief Minister’s positive response to some demands. During a court hearing, the High Court bench raised concerns over the prolonged delay in wage payments, questioning the state’s handling of the issue.
As the strike continues, Karnataka’s public transport system remains paralyzed, with no immediate resolution in sight, leaving commuters scrambling for alternatives.
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