Bus services paralysed in Haryana after staff strike

Chandigarh, March 31 (IANS) Bus services in most parts of Haryana were paralyzed Wednesday following a one-day strike called by the Haryana Roadways Employees Union.

People were stranded at various bus stands as the state transport staff went on a complete strike.

The protesting employees are demanding the cancellation of nearly 3,700 permits issued to private operators to ply buses in the state. They are also seeking regularisation of services of over 3,000 employees of Haryana Roadways.

"The strike is complete across the state. We are against giving permits to private operators. Our talks with the government have failed," Haryana Roadways Employees Union leaders Sarbat Singh Punia and Lal Singh said.

The leaders warned that if their demands were not met, they would intensify the protest with an indefinite strike.

Private taxis and buses cashed in on the strike by charging higher prices from commuters.

Students and office-goers were badly affected by the strike as not many alternative options were available to reach their destinations.