New Delhi, March 17 The inter-state bus terminal (ISBT) porters' union wrote to the Delhi government on Tuesday, requesting the setting of rates and demanding a set of welfare measures.
In a letter submitted on Tuesday, the Porters Union outlined a set of demands, stating that their concerns remain unresolved despite repeated appeals.
According to the letter, a key demand is the fixation and regulation of porter rates.
"The rates that were fixed 32 years ago are still being followed today; considering inflation, porter rates should be officially revised," the letter read.
The union also sought identity cards for porters working at ISBTs, arguing that this would help regulate the workforce and prevent unauthorized individuals from entering the trade.
Another key demand is access to basic welfare measures. In the letter, the porters' body demanded the provision of benefits such as insurance and pensions, pointing out that most individuals associated with the profession have no social security despite years of work.
The union also highlighted "dire conditions" at the porter waiting room and lavatory in ISBT Kashmiri Gate, emphasizing the need for immediate attention. "The roof leaks during rain. The lavatory is unusable, and the accumulation of waste is inviting diseases. It needs urgent cleaning," the letter stated.
Union president Sunil Aledia said that the Rs 10 per month license fee has remained unchanged since 1990. He claimed that porter rates have remained Rs 2-4 per 40 kg since 2002-03, demanding that these rates be revised.