THE GOAN NETWORK
MAPUSA
The KTC Drivers & Allied Employees’ Association (AITUC) has deferred its proposed strike scheduled for November 12 after the Kadamba Transport Corporation Ltd (KTCL) management agreed to address several long-pending demands during an eight-hour conciliation meeting held before the Deputy Labour Commissioner on Tuesday.
The agreement was reached following discussions between the union representatives and KTCL Managing Director Rohan Kaskar and senior officials, with Deputy Labour Commissioner Prasad Pednekar intervening in the matter.
Among the key assurances, the management agreed to consider regularisation of daily-wage, temporary and badli drivers and conductors who have completed five years of service, subject to vacancies.
It also agreed to submit a fresh proposal to the government for granting temporary status to eligible workers.
On the long-pending 7th Pay Commission arrears for the 34-month period from January 2016 to October 2018, the management agreed to seek government funds and disburse the amount in two instalments.
The first is to be paid by January 2027, while the remaining amount will be cleared during the 2027-28 financial year.
The management also agreed to take up the issue of pending provident fund differences with the government and other stakeholders, with a resolution targeted before March 31, 2027.
On the introduction of new electronic ticketing machines (ETMs), it was agreed that the management would hold bilateral discussions with the union before implementing the proposed changes.
Other assurances included considering promotions for eligible conductors and technical and clerical staff, reviewing disciplinary measures involving fines and breaks in service, and pursuing pending bonus and ex-gratia payments with the government.
The management also said a proposal for procuring new buses would be moved before the government, while 15 new AC buses are expected shortly.
Following the agreement, the union decided to defer the November 12 strike and maintain normalcy.
