Bus drivers’ strike enters second day in Ahmedabad

Citizens, for a second consecutive day on Wednesday, had a hard time commuting to their offices in the city as bus drivers and conductors of Ahmedabad Municipal Transit Services (AMTS) continued their agitation over suspension of eight AMTS workers. Speaking on the issue, Amit Shah, chairman - AMTS said that AMTS workers had participated in the bandh on Tuesday following footsteps of trade workers of the entire nation. "Eight workers, who were not members of any trade union, tried to prevent other AMTS drivers and conductors from working. They also punctured tyres of buses at Lal Darwaza, creating a menace for others," said Shah. AMTS has suspended the eight workers. This action has angered other AMTS employees who continued the strike on Wednesday.Only 500 buses were in service on Wednesday, 50% of which were private. These buses were driven by private personnel with 200-odd buses lying idle at AMTS bus depot. "Hundred drivers and conductors of GSRTC were asked to manage AMTS buses so that commuting isn't hampered much," added Shah. Around 63 AMTS buses on Wednesday morning were plying on the road without any conductors, serving a free ride to customers. Daily income of the AMTS fell by Rs3 lakh on Wednesday.