APSRTC talks fail as unions press for cancellation of 1,450 e-bus tenders

APSRTC talks failed on Friday as employee unions demanded cancellation of 1,450 e-bus tenders. APSRTC Joint Managing Director Siva Prasad held discussions with JAC leaders at RTC House in Vijayawada. The JAC opposed private operation of electric buses and sought filling of 15,000 vacancies and procurement of 4,000 diesel buses. APSRTC Employees’ Unions' JAC State conveners Y. Srinivasa Rao and Palisetti Damodara Rao stated that the committee reiterated its opposition to privatization of public transport services.

The meeting followed JAC's notice on October 15 seeking cancellation of tenders issued on October 13 for electric bus operation. JAC leaders insisted on APSRTC staff operating the buses and not handing over public transport services to private operators. Siva Prasad claimed the tenders were issued per government decision and could not be canceled, while also promising to reopen closed depots and invite tenders for work.

The JAC leaders highlighted successful protest programs across the state and demanded immediate filling of vacancies and procurement of diesel buses to handle increased passenger traffic due to the Stree Shakti free bus travel scheme for women. They also called for fleet strengthening ahead of Godavari and Krishna Pushkarams, asserting that better transport facilities would benefit pilgrims and enhance the government's reputation.

JAC co-conveners warned of intensified agitation to protect employees' interests and safeguard public transport.