GHMC workers protest handing over of sanitation works to Ramky
Pic for representation purpose only. (Photo: DC/File)
Hyderabad: With nearly 3,200 civic workers calling a flash strike, and staying away from garbage lifting and transportation activities, around 3,500 metric tons of garbage has piled up on the city roads.
The employees are against the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation handing over road cleaning, removal and transport of garbage job to Ramky Enviro Company. So far, GHMC authorities have not held any discussion with protesters, who have warned of an indefinite strike involving sweepers, anti-fogging personnel, park maintenance workers and horticulture workers. Nearly 37,000 permanent and contract employees would be part of the stir.
The GHMC, on April 19, had handed over the job to Ramky at Kapra and Uppal circles, following which workers called for a flash strike on Monday. Leaders of all unions unanimously felt that the GHMC’s agreement with Ramky would affect the interests of the workers and employees.
“The municipal authorities have agreed to pay Rs 1,431 for each ton of garbage lifted and transported and have authorised Ramky to collect from Rs 25 to Rs 50 from every household. However, this work would cost the GHMC between Rs 600 and Rs 700. The civic body has agreed to pay Rs 1431 per ton to Ramky to loot public money,” the leaders said.
They also opposed the state and Central grants, municipal vehicles and allotment of land to Ramky Company, stated the union leaders.
U. Gopal, GHMEU president, said, “GHMC’s decision to hand over sanitation work to Ramky would increase burden on the citizens. The job is done within Rs 70 crore, but the municipal body has agreed for a deal of Rs 200 crore with the private company. Unless the Ramky agreement is scrapped, no workers will attend duty.”
Ravi Kiran, the additional commissioner, sanitation, refused to comment when contacted.
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