The security company’s contract with Punjab Mass Transit Authority had expired and was awarded to a new company. Metro service employees work under various private companies, which are no less exploitative of employees. Workers are being paid less than the government-mandated minimum monthly wage of 37,000 rupees (132 USD). Cleaning staff and security guards are being paid monthly of 25,000 rupees (89 USD).
Whether there’s an accident or illness, employees are not given leave. If someone takes leave, 8,000 rupees (29 USD) are deducted for one day. Employees are also made to work overtime, for which complete payment is not made.
Metro bus provides low-cost travel, mostly used by the poor and workers, which is being destroyed by handing it over to private companies. Bus fares are also being increased.
The government is taking all these measures at the behest of the IMF. This can only be countered by uniting and fighting a workers struggle. Metro employees must form alliances with employees of other institutions. Privatization is also happening in other government institutions including WAPDA, Railways, and PIA. They must move towards a nationwide general strike by building connections with employees of these institutions.
PTUS is showing complete solidarity with the struggling transport workers of Lahore Metro Transport service. We will connect with international workers movement and gain solidarity for Lahore Metro Workers.
