Punjab's big bus strike: What's the "kilometer scheme" fight about?
Punjab's public transport is partially halted as many contract workers from Punjab Roadways, PUNBUS, and PRTC have been striking since November 28.
They're protesting the government's kilometer scheme—a plan to pay private contractors per kilometer for running busses, instead of keeping these jobs within the public sector.
Tensions spiked after police detained union leaders and a protest in Sangrur turned violent.
Why should you care?
With over 3,000 busses off the roads, cities like Ludhiana and Amritsar are facing major travel hassles.
The strike isn't just about pay—it's about job security for nearly 7,500 contract workers who fear losing out on permanent positions if more bus services go private.
Unions call this backdoor privatization, warning it could weaken public transport in Punjab for years to come.
The standoff shows how changes in government policy can directly affect everyday life and future job opportunities for young people across the state.