KSRTC Faces Onam Challenge Amidst Funding Setback

The government has backtracked on its commitment by allocating only Rs 30 crore to KSRTC for covering employee salaries, pensions, and Onam benefits. It’s noteworthy that KSRTC had initially requested Rs 220 crore to resolve the ongoing issue of unequal salary disbursements.

Employees are disheartened as it appears highly likely that their Onam festivities will be marred by difficulties. KSRTC’s earnings for July amount to Rs 190 crore, while expenses stand at Rs 250 crore. CITU and TDF have jointly called for a strike on August 26th to protest against the halted salary distribution. Inside sources reveal that KSRTC is currently facing one of the most severe crises it has ever encountered.

An amount of Rs 80 crore is necessary for a month’s worth of salary payments. Additionally, pension payments for two months are in arrears, requiring Rs 71 crore for a month’s pension distribution. Another Rs 20 crore is needed for the distribution of Onam bonuses. Although pension distribution is handled through cooperative societies, the contract renewal is pending. Given this predicament, it’s unlikely that the management will be able to provide an advance salary to employees. Nevertheless, the management has alerted the government to this issue. To salvage the situation, the government could restore its reputation by ensuring the previous month’s salary is paid before the strike date.

Transport Minister Antony Raju has hinted at engaging in discussions with trade union leaders once receiving assurances from the Finance Department. The Rs 30 crore allocated recently has yet to be credited to KSRTC’s account. Similar delays have occurred in the past, further exacerbating concerns. The current allocation will barely cover even half of the employees’ salaries.