Himachal Invokes ESMA to Stop HRTC Strike; Employees Vow to Continue Agitation
Photo used for indicative purpose only. Source: Internet
Shimla, June 23
The Himachal Pradesh Government on Tuesday invoked the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) to prevent the proposed indefinite strike by Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) employees, who had announced that government bus services would cease from midnight on June 24.
The move came after talks between representatives of HRTC employees and Additional Chief Secretary (Transport) R.D. Nazim at the Secretariat failed to break the deadlock over employees’ demands. Following the inconclusive meeting, employees staged a demonstration at the Old Bus Stand in Shimla and reiterated their decision to launch the strike.
Acting swiftly, the Transport Department issued a notification imposing ESMA on HRTC services for six months. The order prohibits any employee from initiating, participating in, or supporting a strike. The government warned that violations would invite legal action under the provisions of the Act.
The notification stated that public transport is an essential service in Himachal Pradesh as it is crucial for passenger movement, supply of essential commodities and maintenance of public services. Any disruption in bus operations could severely affect public life, particularly in rural and remote areas where HRTC remains the principal mode of transport.
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The government has directed the Managing Director of HRTC to ensure strict implementation of the notification and immediately report any violations. Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police across the state have been instructed to extend all necessary assistance in enforcing the order.
In another significant step to maintain bus operations, the government announced the recruitment of 656 temporary drivers. Walk-in interviews are scheduled to be held at 12 noon on June 24 at all Regional Manager offices of HRTC across the state. The selected drivers will be deployed at 31 depots. Applicants must possess a matriculation certificate, a valid HTV/HMV driving licence and at least three years of experience driving heavy vehicles.
Despite the government’s action, employee leaders indicated they were prepared for a prolonged struggle, alleging that their long-pending demands had not been addressed. They accused the government of resorting to administrative measures instead of resolving issues through dialogue.
The proposed strike has triggered concerns among commuters across the state. HRTC operates the backbone of Himachal Pradesh’s public transport network and serves thousands of villages where alternative transport facilities are either limited or unavailable. With rail connectivity confined to a few pockets and air services catering to only a small segment of the population, any disruption in HRTC operations is expected to have a widespread impact on daily life.
The situation remains tense as the government and employee unions appear headed for a confrontation, with both sides holding firm to their positions.
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