Bengaluru: Waste Collectors’ indefinite strike postponed, 15-day deadline given to government

Bengaluru’s feared garbage crisis has been temporarily averted, as the garbage lorry and auto drivers’ union has decided to postpone their planned indefinite strike. The protest, which was scheduled to begin tomorrow, has now been put on hold for 15 days, giving the Karnataka government time to address their long-standing demands.

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The Garbage Workers’ Union and the Labour Protection Trade Union had earlier announced a full-scale protest from tomorrow, citing unmet demands such as job regularisation and direct salary disbursement. Despite repeated assurances, including one from Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, the workers expressed frustration that six to seven months had passed without any action.

However, following communication from the government and news of ongoing discussions at the state level, the union leaders decided to defer the protest. The announcement was made during a press briefing, where union representatives stated that they are providing a 15-day ultimatum for the government to act on its promises.

The proposed protest was expected to severely disrupt door-to-door waste collection across the city. Now, with operations continuing as normal, citizens have temporary relief from what could have turned into a major sanitation crisis.

Union leaders have made it clear that if the demands are not met within 15 days, the strike will be resumed without further negotiation. The ball is now in the government's court.