"bus-strike"

Former Minister T Harish Rao supported RTC employees on strike in Siddipet, accusing the Congress government of failing to honour promises. He alleged privatisation plans, financial gaps in schemes, and warned of protests if demands, including employee status, are not met.

The RTC strike disrupted normal life in Hyderabad, leaving commuters stranded at major bus stations like JBS and Rathifile. With limited SETWIN services and no regular buses, passengers faced long waits and turned to expensive private transport options.

Aimed at intensifying their protest, the striking employees have decided to stage a candlelight protest on Thursday evening.

Amid threats of tough action, "no work no pay", few RTC employees have returned to work and are operating buses on some routes in the city.

The Karnataka government on Friday banned with immediate effect the indefinite strike by employees of the road transport corporations, which affected bus services across the State.

Passengers travelling to and from distant areas and office-goers were the most affected.