Hyderabad: RTC strike withdrawal was urged by Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar, who asked employees to drop their proposed agitation in the public interest.
He said the government remained open to resolving issues through dialogue. However, he clarified that matters such as RTC merger and labour unions fell under government authority. Therefore, he said the administration would handle them through due process.
The Minister assured employees that discussions could address grievances. He added that the government followed a structured and amicable approach. At the same time, he highlighted recent financial steps to support staff.
He said the government implemented a 2.1% DA for RTC employees. Moreover, he confirmed that no DA arrears remained pending. He also noted that officials were examining the PRC issue while focusing on employee welfare.
RTC strike withdrawal linked to reforms and financial recovery
Ponnam Prabhakar said RTC strike withdrawal was crucial during the organisation’s recovery phase. He recalled that the previous government formed a committee on September 9, 2023, on RTC merger. However, he said the process moved hastily before elections.
He explained that multiple elections delayed a structured decision on merger. Therefore, he stressed that any merger required detailed study of the state’s finances.
He also highlighted early steps taken by the current government. Within 48 hours of assuming office, it launched the Mahalakshmi scheme. This scheme offers free bus travel for women.
He said the initiative strengthened RTC operations. As a result, over 90 depots now reported profits. He added that reforms improved financial stability across the organisation.
PF dues reduced from ₹1,205 crore to ₹600 crore, he said. Similarly, CCS dues declined from ₹690 crore to ₹300 crore. Therefore, he noted that these improvements supported long-term recovery.
The Minister said RTC strike withdrawal would prevent inconvenience to passengers. He warned that disruptions could affect services and slow progress.
He also outlined expansion measures. The government introduced 2,978 new buses and provided 1,134 compassionate appointments. In addition, recruitment exams concluded and new staff would soon join duty.
Ponnam Prabhakar said the government focused on three priorities. These include protecting RTC, ensuring employee welfare and maintaining passenger convenience.
He urged employees to reconsider their decision. He said RTC strike withdrawal would help resolve issues through dialogue while sustaining growth.
Appeal to RTC Employees to Withdraw Strike in Public Interest: Minister Ponnam Prabhakar
State Transport and BC Welfare Minister @Ponnam_INC urged RTC employees to withdraw their proposed strike in the interest of the organization and the public. He stated that the government… pic.twitter.com/GG16eHBDKx
— IPRDepartment (@IPRTelangana) April 14, 2026
