At a time when Shashank Rao union has threatened to go on strike on the issue of Diwali bonus, the civic body categorically said they would not give more funds to BEST unless the latter doesn't implement steps proposed for its revival. The Undertaking's budget has not been approved for the last two years now.
The BEST's budget of the previous year, with a deficit of Rs 590 crore, hasn't been passed because as per the revival plan, they can earn Rs 668 crore. "We have asked BEST to take steps to improve the financial condition. Hike in bus fares is not a solution," said BMC Commissioner Ajoy Mehta.
The civic body has not approved last year's BEST budget for which they have asked the Undertaking to implement nine different steps to eradicate the deficit. Now, BEST is struggling to pay salaries for which they take monthly loans of Rs 200 crore. The union is also demanding Diwali bonus as BMC has paid a bonus to its employees.
"The BMC has paid Rs 1400 crore as Diwali bonus to its staff. They should understand that they are parent organisation of the BEST and pay Diwali bonus to them as well," said Shashank Rao, president, BEST Workers' Union.
The union have stated that if the employees do not receive a bonus till October 21, they will go on an indefinite strike. Anil Kokil, chairman of BEST committee, said, "I have written to the Mayor, asking to give BEST employees a Diwali bonus. I will be meeting the Mayor on Friday and asking him to give a bonus to the employees."
Overtime stress
The Railway Kamgar Sena, a railway workers wing of Shiv Sena, have stated the motorman will not be working overtime from October 15. The union is supported by central railway motorman association, who have stated that they have support from 400 motormen on Central Railway.
BURDEN OF LOANS
Civic body has not approved BEST’s budget last year for which they have asked the Undertaking to implement nine different steps to eradicate the deficit. Now, BEST is struggling to pay salaries for which they take monthly loans of Rs 200 crore.
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