As the strike continues to affect operations and revenue, the MSRTC has decided to hire 1,200 more contractual staff to keep its fleet of buses running. MSRTC officials said that they are left with no option as the workers have remained adamant and have not resumed work. “The worst part is that no particular leader is directing the strike. This is leading to problems and the administration is left with a faceless agitation, with no one to negotiate with,” a senior official said.

“We have hired contractual staff to maintain bus operations and keep the buses running. As of now, a handful of buses run across the state, which is leading to a severe loss of revenue and commuter inconvenience. The exam season is approaching and students in rural areas have been heavily dependent on state transport buses. Taxis and private operators have been overcharging commuters for the smallest of routes. With more staff behind the wheel, we can get more buses on the road. There have been complaints about contract staff, but we are continuously monitoring them,” he added.