Explain Bus strike Kerala in 500 words
The bus strike in Kerala was a significant event that occurred in the southern state of India in April It was a protest organized by the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and the private bus operators against the government's decision to increase the minimum wages of the employees in the sector. The strike lasted for over a week and had a severe impact on the transportation system in the state.
The main reason behind the strike was the government's decision to implement the recommendations of the 10th Pay Revision Commission (PRC), which proposed an increase in the minimum wages of the employees in the transport sector. The KSRTC and private bus operators argued that the proposed increase was not feasible and would lead to financial difficulties for them. They demanded that the government reconsider the decision and come up with a more reasonable wage hike.
The strike began on April 2, 2018, and quickly escalated as more and more employees joined the protest. The bus services across the state were severely affected, leaving thousands of commuters stranded and causing immense inconvenience to the public. Schools and colleges were also forced to shut down as students were unable to reach their institutions. The strike had a significant impact on the state's economy as well, with businesses suffering due to the lack of transportation.
The government, on the other hand, maintained that the wage hike was necessary to improve the living conditions of the employees in the transport sector. They argued that the increase was in line with the rising cost of living and that it was the government's responsibility to ensure fair wages for all workers. They also accused the bus operators of being unwilling to compromise and negotiate on the issue.
As the strike continued, the government took several measures to mitigate the impact on the public. They deployed additional police personnel to maintain law and order and arranged alternative transportation options like private taxis and boats in some areas. However, these measures were insufficient to meet the demands of the stranded commuters, and the public grew increasingly frustrated with the situation.
Amidst the strike, negotiations between the government and the bus operators took place, but no agreement could be reached. The bus operators remained firm on their demand for a reconsideration of the wage hike, while the government insisted on implementing the PRC recommendations. The stalemate continued until April 10, 2018, when the Kerala High Court intervened and directed the government to hold talks with the striking employees and find a solution.
Following the court's intervention, discussions resumed, and finally, on April 11, 2018, an agreement was reached between the government and the bus operators. The government agreed to revise the wage hike and reduce the burden on the bus operators. The strike was called off, and normal bus services resumed in the state.
The bus strike in Kerala highlighted the challenges faced by the transport sector in balancing the interests of the employees and the financial viability of the operators. It also shed light on the importance of effective communication and negotiation between the government and the stakeholders to resolve such disputes. The strike served as a reminder of the crucial role that public transportation plays in the daily lives of people and the need for a sustainable and fair system.