Chennai: Transport union leaders not to strike work, but stick to demands

Chennai: The transport union leaders who had threatened of striking work, made a climbdown on Friday from their earlier stance.

According to the union leaders, they had an explanatory meeting with members of the unions, and decided not to go on strike for the sake of the public.

“However, we will again press for our demands and announce the date for strike, if our demands are not given due attention,” they said.

Empty fire extinguishers boxes are seen in Koyambedu bus terminus

It may be noted that the transport minister already said that there was no talk of strike, and all workers would turn up for duty so that public can utilise the services of government buses.

Meanwhile, a total of 1,23,233 seats were booked with collections touching Rs 581.13 lakh. From Chennai, a total of 46,977 seats have been so far booked as on November 2.

Fire extinguishers fitted in new buses. (Photo: N. SAMPATH)

Crew cry foul over lack of infra: With the transport department roping in more number of drivers and conductors to operate special buses during Deepavali, officials have failed to provide basic amenities for them, and it prompted the crew to stay on the pavements of the premises of Puratchi Thalaivar Dr MGR Bus terminus.

Sources said that with the special buses being operated to various destinations from Chennai, many drivers and conductors reached Chennai to take buses from Saturday. However, they were made to sleep on pavements.