Public transport services in Karnataka are witnessing widespread disruptions as employees of various state-run transport corporations have launched protests over pending salaries and opposition to proposed privatisation measures. The protests have intensified over the past few days, leading to delays and cancellations in bus services across multiple districts.
Workers from key state transport bodies including Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation, Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation, North Western Karnataka Road Transport Corporation, and North Eastern Karnataka Road Transport Corporation have come together to raise their collective voice. The primary demand is the immediate disbursal of pending salaries and allowances, which they say have been delayed for several months.
Union leaders have expressed concern over the financial instability of the transport corporations and alleged that the government has failed to provide necessary budgetary support. Many workers claim they are struggling to meet household expenses due to irregular salary payments and are demanding a permanent solution rather than temporary assurances.
In addition to salary issues, the workers are protesting against the Karnataka government’s reported plans to privatise parts of the public transport system. They fear that such steps will threaten job security, reduce wages, and result in the erosion of workers’ rights. According to the unions, the entry of private players could undermine the accessibility and affordability of transport services, especially in rural and underserved areas.
Leaders from several trade unions have participated in peaceful rallies, sit-ins, and symbolic strikes to voice their concerns. While the protests have largely remained non-violent, the growing scale has disrupted regular services, inconveniencing commuters across urban and rural areas. In Bengaluru, bus delays have particularly affected officegoers and students.
The protesting workers are also demanding regularisation of contract employees and the filling of vacant posts within the corporations. They have called upon the government to take a clear stand against privatisation and focus on strengthening public infrastructure instead.
In response, officials from the state government have acknowledged the workers’ concerns and stated that discussions are underway to resolve the financial challenges faced by the transport corporations. However, no concrete timeline has yet been provided for payment of dues or a decision on the privatisation proposal.
Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy appealed to workers to end the protest and resume duties, assuring them that their grievances will be addressed through dialogue. He emphasized that the government is committed to safeguarding the interests of transport workers and is exploring sustainable funding solutions.
Meanwhile, commuters have been urged to stay updated through official sources regarding service availability. Emergency services are being prioritized, and authorities have deployed contingency plans to manage critical routes.
The ongoing protest underscores broader concerns about the financial health of state-run services and the future of public sector employment in Karnataka. Workers have warned that unless swift action is taken, they may escalate their protest in the coming days.
