Punjab: Contract workers to stage a road blockade; Over 1000 routes to remain effective

June 10, 2026

Operations of government buses in Punjab will come to a halt today (June 10). Following in the footsteps of Punbus staff, Punjab Roadways contract employees will stage a ‘chakka jam’ (transport blockade) starting this afternoon due to their pending demands. Punbus contract workers have already been on strike since yesterday and have removed buses from their designated counters.

Thousands of commuters across 23 districts will face travel difficulties today. Interstate routes may also be affected during this period. Only regular employees will be operating buses. The employees state that bus operations will be completely brought to a standstill.

The government will be held responsible for any inconvenience caused to the public during this time, although efforts are being made by the government to avert this agitation.

Where the impact will be most significant

While the strike will affect the entire state—especially given that it is the peak of the summer season and schools are closed, prompting many families to travel—commuters will be forced to rely on private buses. Additionally, college students in certain areas may face difficulties.

Admissions processes are currently underway, and patients visiting hospitals will also be affected. People in rural areas will bear the brunt of the strike, as bus routes there are limited. Buses serve as a lifeline for reaching major institutions like PGI, where specialist doctors are available on specific days. Furthermore, women, who are entitled to free travel, will also face inconvenience.

Potential loss of up to ₹15 crore due to the strike

The daily government revenue from Punjab Roadways and Punbus ranges between ₹2 crore and ₹3 crore, while PRTC’s daily income is also around ₹2.5 crore to ₹3 crore. Consequently, if a complete transport blockade lasts for three days, the government could face a direct financial loss of ₹12 crore to ₹15 crore across these undertakings. Transport corporations have previously suffered heavy losses due to similar agitations.