Government to introduce 12-hour single duty system in KSRTC
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In an attempt to turn the debt-ridden KSRTC into a profitable department, the Kerala government has decided to impose a 12-hour single-duty system for workers. It will include a four-hour rest period.
While Congress-affiliated trade union Transport Democratic Federation (TDF) agreed to the single duty system, the proposal of 12 hours was rejected. Workers demanded that one shift should be eight hours.
The TDF told the media that a 12-hour system is injurious to health because the workers will have to start work at 6 am and they will reach home only by 10 pm. The representatives added that this can be dangerous for workers and passengers.
The pro-CPI(M) Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) did not comment on the hours specified in the system but said that the new system should be brought into effect within six months from October 1.
Both unions met with CM Pinarayi Vijayan on September 5. A statement from the Chief Minister's office said that the 12-hour single duty system will be implemented and duties will be assigned on rotation on a zonal basis.
Initially, the system will be implemented in ordinary and fast passenger services for six days a week. 50% of the staff will have to comply. After that, the percentage can be increased or decreased.
The public transport department workers have been expressing discontent over pending salaries over the past few months. The state government on September 5 issued an order to release Rs 100 cr to deal with the problem.
According to the government, the new system will bring in a revenue of Rs 20-25 crore every month.