Patna, August 6: The sanitation workers’ strike in Patna and other municipal bodies across the state, which lasted for eight days, concluded on Thursday. A consensus was reached during discussions between a delegation of sanitation workers and the Minister of Urban Development and Housing, Nitish Mishra. Following this agreement on key demands, the protest committee announced the withdrawal of the strike and the return of workers to their duties.
This development raises hopes for the swift normalization of sanitation services in the capital and other municipalities. The strike had severely disrupted cleaning operations in Patna, leading to a significant accumulation of waste on streets, in markets, neighborhoods, and residential areas.
With continuous rainfall, the accumulation of wet waste had begun to emit foul odors, increasing the risk of infections in several areas. Residents faced considerable difficulties, prompting the government to intervene actively. Minister Nitish Mishra engaged in extensive discussions with representatives of the sanitation workers, with senior officials from the department also present at the meeting.
During the talks, there was a positive discussion on the workers’ primary demands, with agreements reached on most issues. The government assured that it would sympathetically consider other demands.
After the meeting, Minister Nitish Mishra expressed gratitude to all employees who placed their trust in the government. He stated, “We will make all necessary decisions for those who work to keep our city clean. Agreements have been reached on several demands. A committee will be formed for some issues, while others will require the approval of the cabinet.”
Sources indicate that the state government took the matter seriously, instructing officials to ensure the strike was resolved. Additionally, a decision was made to end punitive actions against employees taken during the protest, facilitating the path to agreement between both parties.
Earlier, a special meeting of the empowered standing committee was held under the chairmanship of Patna Municipal Corporation Mayor Sita Sahu. It was clarified that most of the sanitation workers’ demands fall outside the jurisdiction of the municipal corporation. Therefore, it was unanimously decided to send proposals related to these demands to the Urban Development and Housing Department for necessary action at the state government level.
Mayor Sita Sahu emphasized that the Patna Municipal Corporation has always been committed to the interests and welfare of sanitation workers. She expressed hope that the agreement reached between the government and the workers would lead to the complete restoration of sanitation services soon.
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