RTC strike across Telangana set to begin at midnight, talks likely with JAC

Public transport services in Telangana may be disrupted as TGSRTC employees plan a strike from Tuesday midnight. With thousands of workers involved, talks between the government and JAC leaders are expected, while contingency measures are being explored.

Hyderabad: Public transport services across Telangana are set to be disrupted as TGSRTC employees prepare to launch a strike from Tuesday midnight.

The strike, led by the RTC Joint Action Committee (JAC), has already mobilised nearly 15,000 workers. Commuters may face severe inconvenience, with an estimated 3.5 million passengers expected to be affected by the shutdown.

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Around 28 depots in Hyderabad and Rangareddy districts are expected to be impacted, with nearly 3,800 buses likely to remain off the roads.

There is, however, a possibility of last-minute negotiations. The state government is likely to hold discussions with JAC leaders later in the day.

Officials have reportedly shown a positive approach towards most of the demands, except for key issues like the merger of RTC into the government and the revival of unions.

Meanwhile, the private bus operators’ association has distanced itself from the strike, stating that it will not extend support. The government is focusing on alternative arrangements, including deploying private drivers, though experts warn of potential safety concerns.

The strike is also expected to hit RTC revenues hard, with daily losses estimated at around Rs 8 crore if services remain suspended.