In the capital city of Delhi, DTC drivers and conductors are on strike, causing DTC buses to not run and remain at the depot. Conductors and drivers state that the strike will continue until their demands are met.
Passengers using DTC services are experiencing significant difficulties. Since DTC buses are not operating, other modes of transport, such as cars, taxis, and rural services, are increasing their fares.
It is reported that contract DTC drivers and conductors are striking over demands for increased wages, medical care, and accident insurance.
Drivers explained that they are paid about 22 thousand rupees per month. They also do not receive medical care or life insurance, so they are demanding a salary increase and the provision of these additional services. They emphasized that they will remain on strike until their demands are fulfilled.
Contract driver Vipul Singh reported that they are on strike, and their demand is a wage increase. He noted that they are paid 862 rupees per day, which is insufficient for living. Driver Vinod stated that he is paid 22 thousand rupees per month, which also does not allow them to make ends meet. He insists on a salary increase, pointing out that permanent employees are paid 80 thousand rupees. Their demand is for the daily payment to be 1500 rupees.
Meanwhile, passengers note that the fare, which previously cost around 20 rupees, now requires 100 rupees or even more. On some routes, fare requests range from 50 to 300 rupees. It is also mentioned that for areas like Palm, a fee of 250 to 300 rupees may be required.
The consequences of the strike are felt not only by office workers. People visiting hospitals are also suffering. Some claim that due to excessively high car fares, they are forced to use bicycles.