APSRTC unions oppose outsourcing plan, push for direct conductor recruitment

The Joint Action Committee (JAC) representing APSRTC employees has mounted strong opposition to any move toward outsourcing conductor positions, insisting that the state transport authority must undertake direct recruitment to address its persistent staffing shortfall. The union body has identified more than 15,000 vacant conductor posts across the corporation's operations and demands that these positions be filled through formal employment channels rather than contractual or outsourced arrangements.

Conductors form a critical component of APSRTC's operations, responsible for ticket collection, passenger management, and coordination with drivers on the corporation's extensive bus network serving Andhra Pradesh. The current vacancy levels have reportedly strained service quality and placed additional pressure on existing staff, prompting the JAC to escalate its campaign against outsourcing alternatives.

The union's position reflects broader concerns across India's state transport undertakings regarding employment security and working conditions. By opposing outsourcing, the JAC seeks to preserve permanent employment opportunities and ensure that vacancies are filled through transparent recruitment processes governed by established service rules.

APSRTC authorities have not yet issued an official response to the union's demands. The standoff underscores ongoing tensions between public sector transport corporations and employee unions over workforce management strategies as these utilities navigate operational challenges and budget constraints.