Drivers on strike: Saad says train operations continuing as per routine

Train Drivers Welfare Association calls countrywide strike; 13 drivers arrested

LAHORE: Railways Minister Khawaja Saad Rafique said train operations are continuing as per routine across the country, Radio Pakistan reported.

The development came after the Train Drivers Welfare Association (TDWA) announced a countrywide strike which resulted in suspension of operations in many parts of the country.

Talking to reporters in Lahore on Sunday, Saad Rafique said the railway administration has foiled a bid of strike by some train drivers by taking timely action. “Cases under anti-terrorism act will be registered against these drivers.”



The railway administration held talks with train drivers, who were observing strike, but their all the demands could not be accepted, he added.

The minister went on to say that 13 drivers who tried to create problems for passengers by stopping trains in deserted areas have been arrested.

He urged the other drivers, who are on strike, to call off the strike and resume duty.



Earlier, the drivers association said that their strike would continue till the railways management accepted their demands, including upgrading their pay scale and meal allowances and restoring suspended drivers, some of whom were found guilty in inquiry reports of different train accidents.

A total of 278 drivers have submitted a leave request, which has been strongly rejected by the railways management.

The association said that railways authorities were not taking their demands seriously and after a year of negotiations they had finally decided to call the strike till the approval of their demands.

A spokesperson for the Pakistan Railways said that bringing train operations to a halt falls under terrorism and they would not come under pressure.

“The management is also considering taking strict action against the association,” he said. "We request drivers to continue their normal duties and not create hurdles in the railway operations. The management has already agreed to fulfil their legal demand," he added.