The union highlighted that the government is short on funds to regularise workers but is compelling service providers to paint buses in blue and yellow.
Approximately 250 buses from Public Sector Undertakings(PSUs) PRTC and Punjab Roadways functioning under the kilometre scheme are being coated in yellow and blue. The Congress Opposition claims this is the AAP government’s effort to utilize public funds for promotional purposes, as these colors are strongly linked to the party. Transport Minister Laljit Bhullar did not answer calls.
Shamsher Singh, general secretary of Punjab Roadways and PRTC Contractual Employees Union, stated that the government initially compelled buses to operate under the kilometre scheme and is now requiring operators to paint them in blue and yellow colors. “Buses initially featuring blue/silver and red/silver designs were sent back to the fabricator in Rajasthan.” “This is a misuse of taxpayers’ funds,” he stated.
Leader of the Opposition, Partap Singh Bajwa, criticized the action, stating, “This is the genuine change AAP has introduced.” “The government should be responsible for utilizing buses for its political purposes.”
The union highlighted that the government is short on funds to regularise workers but is compelling service providers to paint buses in blue and yellow. A high-ranking official supported the decision, stating it’s not unprecedented; rural minibuses were painted in yellow and blue during the Akali administration.
