Debt-hit KSRTC to increase pension age

Kozhikode: The debt-ridden state transport giant KSRTC which has been struggling to pay the pension of employees is all set to increase the pension age of its staff.

Moved in a secret manner, the proposal will be discussed in the state Cabinet which is scheduled to be held on Thursday, sources said.

Trade Union leaders have already sent messages down the line to suspend all the ‘sent off’ parties as they hope the decision of the cabinet will be in favour of extension of services of the employees. This month as many as 516 employees including 354 drivers are to retire from service.  

A key aide of the minister who preferred anonymity revealed to this newspaper that the move is part of suggestions by the Sushil Khanna report. It is to be recalled that Prof Sushil Khanna of IIM, Kolkata had submitted a detailed report to the state on how to revamp the KSRTC to make it financially stable.

“We are implementing the report gradually. The revamping of mechanical staff was part of it,” he said, adding that the decision is yet to be finalised.

“KSRTC is not merely a government job. It is also a welfare service. So any decision would be taken after thorough scrutiny,” he added. Secrecy has been maintained, as the decision is expected to push into streets the youth organisations across political barriers who has been opposing the move tooth and nail, it was pointed out.