Transport Department Union Threatens Statewide Stir Over Dues, Land Dispute from August 27

Quick Summary

• Andhra Pradesh Public Transport Department (APPTD-APSRTC) Employees Union has issued an ultimatum to the state government to resolve long-pending staff grievances by August 27, coinciding with Vinayaka Chaviti.
• Key grievances include unpaid dues and benefits such as leave encashment for retired employees and families of deceased staff (pending since 2022),gratuity payments (unpaid since December 2024),and arrears related to the 11th PRC for two years,pending Dearness Allowance,and additional DA instalments.
• No employee promotions have been granted within the last five years.Statewide protests held on July 4-5 failed to elicit any response from the government.
• The union opposes the decision to hand over APSRTC land worth ₹400 crore in Vijayawada to UAE-based LuLu Group for a shopping mall project.
• Union leaders have conducted meetings in 20 districts, with plans underway in six remaining districts on August 17, aiming for coordinated agitation if demands are unmet by August 27.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The APSRTC Employees Union’s ultimatum reflects increasing discontent over unresolved issues like unpaid financial entitlements and stalled career advancement opportunities among public transport staff. Persistent delays concerning gratuities, DA payments, and promotions could undermine trust in state governance systems designed to ensure employee welfare after integration into government service five years ago.

The opposition to transferring APSRTC land signals concerns regarding prioritizing commercial ventures at potential cost of public assets or stakeholder interests. If unaddressed by August’s end-a symbolic deadline tied with a major festival-the union’s planned statewide protests could affect transportation services and intensify discourse around labor rights in Andhra Pradesh.

Published – August 13, 2025 | read more