Ponnam Prabhakar Urges Dialogue as RTC Recovery Faces Strike Threat in Telangana

Telangana’s public transport system is at a critical juncture, as the state-run RTC faces the threat of a strike just when it is beginning to recover from years of financial stress. Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar has urged employees to reconsider their proposed agitation, stressing that this is a time for dialogue rather than disruption. He emphasized that the government remains open to discussions on employee concerns and that protecting the RTC and ensuring public convenience must remain a shared priority.

In recent months, the corporation has shown clear signs of improvement. The introduction of the ‘Mahalakshmi’ scheme , which offers free bus travel for women, has significantly boosted ridership and strengthened revenues. Buses that once struggled with low occupancy are now running nearly full, with women commuters forming a large share of daily passengers. This shift has helped more than 90 depots move into profitability, marking a notable turnaround for an organization that was once fighting for survival.

At the same time, the government has taken steps to address employee welfare, a major concern driving unrest. A 2.1% DA hike has already been implemented, and officials have stated that there are no pending arrears. Long-standing liabilities have also been reduced, with PF dues and CCS liabilities brought down significantly. Additionally, over 1,134 compassionate appointments have been completed, and new recruitment processes are nearing completion, offering some relief to a workforce that has long faced shortages and delays.

Despite these measures, tensions continue over the demand for merger of RTC employees into government service. While workers see this as essential for job security and better benefits, the government views it as a complex financial decision that requires careful evaluation. A committee set up in September 2023 to study the issue could not complete its work due to successive elections and the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct , further delaying progress and fueling frustration among unions.

The timing of the proposed strike has raised concerns, as officials warn it could disrupt services for lakhs of commuters and undermine the corporation’s fragile recovery. With RTC currently in a stabilization phase , any large-scale disruption could reverse gains achieved through recent reforms and welfare initiatives. Minister Prabhakar has therefore called for a balanced approach, urging employees to withdraw the strike and engage in meaningful negotiations.

As Telangana navigates this delicate phase, the focus remains on three key priorities: safeguarding the institution, ensuring employee welfare, and maintaining reliable services for passengers. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether the situation moves toward negotiation and consensus or slips into confrontation, potentially impacting both the corporation’s future and the daily lives of millions who depend on it.