Published :
Updated :
For all latest news, follow The Financial Express Google News channel.
The staff of Dhaka metro-rail company has backtracked on their decision to go on strike from today after receiving assurance that their demands for service-rule approval with necessary correction will be fulfilled within 30 days.
Earlier, officials and employees of grades 9 to 16, who were recruited in the Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL), threatened to stop train operation if the company failed to meet their demands by February 20.
According to sources, the employees held a discussion with the DMTCL officials led by its newly-appointed managing director. During the meeting, the MD listened to their demands and assured them of addressing their concerns within the period.
Talking to the FE over phone, the MD confirmed that the strike has been called off. He also pledged to clear half of the pending arrears following adjustment of salaries of all grades.
"As I have just taken over as the MD, I have sought time to review all the matters and assured them of necessary steps," he said.
Meanwhile, in a press release, the directly recruited officials and employees said the metro rail operation will continue as per schedule. They also warned that failure to meet their demands within the timeframe will lead to the announcement of a fresh programme.
The DMTCL, the state-owned company, has been facing unrest by the recruited officials and employees due to a faulty recruitment policy, which has delayed the formulation of the service rules.
The company has over 900 directly recruited staff, with many government officials working on deputation in various Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) lines projects. Additionally, over 142 others recruited directly are working in MRT-6, MRT-1, and MRT-5 north projects.
The DMTCL was established under the Road Transport and Highways Division of the Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges in 2013. It was registered with the Registrar of Joint Stock Companies and Firms with the objective to plan, implement, operate and maintain the metro rails.
munimaruna@gmail.com