APSRTC JAC Launches Third Phase Stir against Privatisation
The JAC wanted APSRTC itself to procure, own, and operate all electric buses to safeguard the state-run transport corporation
Vijayawada: APSRTC Employees' Joint Action Committee (JAC) announced the third phase of its statewide agitation demanding the immediate reopening of the closed Vidyadharapuram, Guntur-2, Nellore-2, and Mangalam depots.
It asked the government to stop awarding electric bus tenders to private operators. The JAC wanted APSRTC itself to procure, own, and operate all electric buses to safeguard the state-run transport corporation.
Announcing the agitation schedule after the JAC state executive meeting at the Revenue Bhavan in Vijayawada, JAC conveners Y. Srinivasa Rao and Palisetti Damodara Rao alleged that the government, by allowing private electric bus operators, is gradually aiming to privatise APSRTC through leasing of valuable depot lands.
The JAC leaders said the JAC has completed its two phases of peaceful protests. But the government has failed to respond positively. They alleged that four of the APSRTC depots have already been demolished and handed over to private operators, while 50 per cent of the land in eight more depots is being allotted to private firms. Another 29 depots were reportedly being readied for private operators to accommodate 1,450 electric buses.