Electric buses go off Puducherry roads as drivers launch strike
Electric bus drivers in Puducherry have launched a strike, causing service disruptions due to grievances over salary stagnation and working conditions. The drivers are protesting against a private operator, citing issues like discontinued allowances and unfair penalty deductions.
Why it matters
It highlights labor disputes within the public transport sector and the challenges of managing outsourced electric vehicle operations.
As many as 25 electric buses introduced under the Smart Cities Mission in Puducherry stayed off the roads on Monday (October 5, 2026) following a strike by the drivers to press for their charter of demands.
The protest is the latest in a series of demonstrations by the drivers operating the buses under a private operator. The PRTC’s electric buses are run by Evey Trans Limted, a subsidiary of Olectra Greentech under the Gross Contract Model (GCC) model, where the corporation provides only conductors, while the operator handles drivers, maintenance, and other operational responsibilities.
The drivers receive their salaries directly from the operator.
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