Revanth assures to release wages, withdraw cases against RTC staff

Hyderabad: Chief minister A Revanth Reddy on Friday responded positively to the TGRTC JAC leaders' request that the wages for the three-day strike period would be released and cases filed would be withdrawn. He also announced the construction of two international-level bus terminals, one spread across 150 acres at Bahadurguda near Shamshabad, and another in 100 acres at Gajularamaram. Additionally, he announced the procurement of 1,000 electric buses (EVs) to ensure seamless connectivity with the Metro rail network, along with the introduction of mini-buses into the RTC fleet.The CM made these assurances during a meeting with RTCJAC leaders, who met him along with transport minister Ponnam Prabhakar. The JAC leaders expressed their gratitude to the CM for taking the initiative to resolve their issues. Stating that the Congress govt is making efforts to revive RTC, he urged the unions to hold discussions among themselves and present viable options to the govt for a permanent solution, ensuring that the corporation flourishes and more accessible and convenient travel is provided to the people.While instructing Ponnam and officials to take immediate steps to release wages and withdrawal of cases filed during the strike period, the chief minister said that decisions on financial matters, including the PRC, would be taken soon. He also stated that the RTC workers should not be unduly influenced by the opposition politics, as the organisation has already suffered damage. He urged them to cooperate with the govt in its efforts to reduce the burden of interest payments on RTC's outstanding debt and to strengthen and sustain the organisation.The CM further assured that not a single driver would be removed, adding that it is the responsibility of every RTC worker to strive for the revival of the organisation. He noted that through the implementation of the Mahalakshmi scheme, the govt has provided financial assistance of Rs 8,000 crore to the RTC. "Despite facing financial constraints, we are striving to clear the outstanding dues owed to the employees and Rs 1,000 crore has already been released towards clearing the employees' pending bills. We are committed to resolving 100% of RTC workers' issues," he said.Reiterating that the govt stands firmly with the workers, the CM appealed to them to avoid strikes and dharnas, as these would further harm the organisation. He also noted that RTC workers supported the Congress in forming the govt, and the party, in turn, stood by workers during their struggles.