NEW DELHI, SEPTEMBER 18: The Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) drivers’ strike continued despite Transport Minister Pankaj Singh’s appeal to the protesting workers to return to duty, with public transport services across the capital remaining severely affected.
The strike, which entered its fourth day on Friday, has kept thousands of buses off the roads. The protesting union has claimed that more than 3,000 buses were not operating, while commuters in several parts of Delhi faced long queues and extended waiting times. Many passengers were forced to rely on the Metro, autos and e-rickshaws.
The drivers and conductors are seeking a substantial improvement in their remuneration and working conditions. Their demands include raising the daily wage from the current ₹862 to ₹2,000, along with payment for government holidays, annual bonuses, medical facilities, insurance and other social-security benefits. The union has also raised concerns over the revision of dearness allowance and pending salary increments.
Transport Minister Pankaj Singh said the government had held discussions with drivers and private concessionaires and that most of the demands had been accepted. He said the remaining issue of a salary hike would require consultation with the Labour Department. The minister also said medical insurance had been agreed upon, while coverage for family members was under consideration.
The drivers, however, have said they will continue the strike until a concrete decision is reached. The union has maintained that assurances alone are insufficient and that their financial concerns need a clear resolution.
The disruption has placed additional pressure on Delhi’s public transport network. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has increased train services to accommodate additional passengers, while commuters have reported higher expenses and longer travel times.
With negotiations yet to resolve the wage dispute, the continuation of the strike has intensified pressure on the Delhi government and transport authorities to find a settlement and restore normal bus services across the capital.