In a major announcement that has brought much-needed relief to the PUNBUS contractual employees, the Punjab Government has approved a five percent salary hike for drivers, conductors, and workshop staff. The revision, effective immediately, comes as a result of sustained protests and demands from workers who have been battling stagnant wages and mounting financial pressures. However, the hike will only be applicable to those who have completed one year of service by November 1, 2024 — according to the state government’s directive issued on January 15, 2025.
The decision is being hailed as a victory for the PUNBUS contract workers, who have repeatedly highlighted the growing challenges of managing household expenses amidst inflation. For years, they had been urging the government for a salary increase, staging multiple strikes and demonstrations to voice their grievances. Their perseverance has now paid off, with the management finally presenting the proposal to the Board of Directors. The proposal was unanimously approved, and the order has been circulated to seven departments to ensure swift implementation.
“This increase is a small but significant step toward addressing the financial struggles faced by employees. While it does not resolve all issues, it shows the government is willing to listen and act,” said a senior union leader.
Beyond the salary hike, a major breakthrough was achieved in the ongoing dialogue between the Punjab Government and the Punjab Roadways, PUNBUS, and PRTC Contract Workers’ Union. During a meeting chaired by Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar, it was agreed to formulate a policy for the regularization of contract employees under service regulations.
The file for this policy is set to be forwarded to the Punjab Advocate-General for legal scrutiny. A high-level meeting involving the Transport Minister and senior officials is scheduled for January 25, to discuss the policy framework in detail. Following this, another round of talks with the workers’ union will be held on February 3, where the policy is expected to be finalized.
Union representatives have expressed cautious optimism about this development. “The salary hike is a welcome move, but regularization of jobs remains our primary demand. We are hopeful that the upcoming meetings will result in a fair and legally sound policy,” said a union spokesperson.
The workers’ fight for better wages and job security has been a long and arduous one. Many employees have raised concerns about the precarious nature of contract employment and the difficulties it poses in maintaining financial stability. The Government’s acknowledgment of these issues and its willingness to address them through concrete measures has been widely appreciated.
