Bengaluru Metro seeks assistance from KMRL

KOCHI: The Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (BMRCL) has contacted Kochi Metro Rail Ltd, for staff assistance to mitigate any possible adverse impact on the operations of Namma Metro arising out of the indefinite strike called by BMRC Employees’ Union.
The indefinite strike demanding salary hike, nightduty allowance, recognition for the union and labourers on contract, was supposed to begin on May 4, but was postponed following a directive by the Karnataka high court on Monday.
The court had said that BMRCL and the union along with the government must hold a tri-partite meet to resolve the dispute by June18.
Namma Metro, which ply 3.4 lakh passengers daily, approached the KMRL seeking support as they fear disruption of schedules during the strike.
KMRL officials said the BMRCL had approached them last year too, following the first strike.
KMRL managing director Mohammed Hanish said BMRCL has requested the services of train operators to ensure smooth operation of services during the strike. “We have considered their request and are willing to provide them service of train operators if required. Right now, I am waiting for their confirmation,” he said.
KMRL will be sending around 5-6 operators to assist BMRCL in Namma Metro operations, if the need arises, Hanish said.
Concerns regarding the indefinite strike began in February this year. Though the BMRCL and the union had held several rounds of conciliatory talks, the matter is yet to be resolved.