Delhi transport minister reviews drivers’ concerns amid DTC protest

The protest began on September 15, with workers raising demands related to wages, dearness allowance, medical benefits, and other service conditions.

Transport minister Pankaj Kumar Singh on Friday reviewed the concerns raised by contractual Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) drivers amid the ongoing agitation over wages and service conditions.

Buses parked inside the Hasanpur Bus Depot amid the strike by contractual Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) workers. (Representative Image (RAJ K RAJ /HT))

During a meeting with representatives of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and private operators, discussions were held regarding health insurance for drivers and their families, accident insurance and compensation, timely issuance of salary slips and appointment letters, performance-linked incentives and weekly and monthly rest provisions.

Singh directed the stakeholders to examine the feasibility of the discussed measures in accordance with labour laws, concession agreements and operational requirements.

“The welfare of contractual drivers and the continuity of public transport services are both important. We have discussed the principal issues raised by the drivers and the measures proposed for their resolution,” Singh said.

Contractual DTC drivers’ protest

The contractual DTC drivers’ protest began on September 15, with workers raising demands related to wages, dearness allowance, medical benefits and other service conditions.

The minister also asked OEMs and operators to address genuine grievances and submit point-wise compliance reports on the measures discussed. The minister said the issue of salary and minimum wages would require examination by the competent authority.