There is also strong opposition to the "kilometre scheme", which unions view as a step toward privatising the transport department.

Punjab Transport Crisis: Nearly 8,000 Workers Launch ‘Indefinite’ Strike; State Depots Shut Down

Public transport across Punjab came to a standstill on Wednesday afternoon as nearly 8,000 contract workers from Punjab Roadways and PRTC began an indefinite strike. The "chakka jam" left thousands of commuters stranded, forcing many to seek expensive private alternatives.

Harkesh Vicky, state vice-president of the PRTC Contractual Employees Union, confirmed that workers across all 27 state depots are participating. The escalation follows the administration's failure to resolve employees’ demands despite repeated assurances. The union's primary demand is the immediate release of colleagues who have been jailed for over two months on serious charges, including attempted murder, following protests in late 2025. Union leaders allege these arrests and the termination of 34 employees are attempts to suppress their voices.

Beyond the legal disputes, workers are protesting the "Special Cadre Policy, 2023", which they claim leaves veteran employees in professional limbo. There is also strong opposition to the "kilometre scheme", which unions view as a step toward privatising the transport department. 

Jasdeep Singh Lalli, Union Secretary, highlighted the dire financial state of the corporations, noting that nearly Rs 350 crore in government reimbursements for free women’s travel is pending. With no new buses added to the PRTC fleet in four years, the unions warn that the state’s public transport infrastructure is at a breaking point.

Source: The Tribune