HMWSSB tanker operators call off strike after assurance on higher rates

Hyderabad water tanker operators have withdrawn their proposed strike after HMWSSB Managing Director K Ashok Reddy assured them that their demand for higher rates would be considered. The proposal will be placed before the next Board meeting for discussion and approval

Hyderabad: Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) water tanker operators have withdrawn their proposed strike and decided to continue supplying drinking water. The operators took the decision after HMWSSB Managing Director K Ashok Reddy assured them that their demand for higher tanker rates would be considered.

Presidents of three tanker owners’ associations who met Ashok Reddy here on Saturday explained the difficulties caused by a sharp rise in operating costs, according to a press release. They also reminded him of their earlier written request seeking a revision of the existing rates.

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Ashok Reddy responded positively and assured them that the proposal would be placed before the next Board meeting for discussion and approval. As the final decision rests with the government, he reportedly said he would bring the matter to its attention and work towards a resolution.

Representatives, including GVG Naidu, Sampath Rao, Akbar Hussain and Imran Khan, along with other union members and officials, participated in the meeting.