The recent termination of over 200 staff members by a newly appointed security firm for the Metro Bus Service has triggered significant protests in Islamabad. The demonstrations commenced on May 15, 2026, resulting in the suspension of bus services for nearly two hours, as reported by local media outlet Dawn. The affected employees gathered on the metro track to voice their opposition to the dismissals and the non-receipt of their salaries for the preceding two months.

During the protest, a large number of male and female workers converged at the Potohar Metro Bus Station, chanting slogans against the management of the Metro Bus Service. The blockade of the track caused substantial inconvenience to students and commuters during the morning rush hour, highlighting the broader impact of the dismissals on the community.

Claims of Unlawful Terminations and Unpaid Salaries

The protesting workers alleged that the dismissals took place without any prior warning. The termination process reportedly began on May 1, 2023, coinciding with the takeover of the bus service by the new security firm. Many of the employees claimed they had not received their salaries for March and April, exacerbating their grievances.

According to the demonstrators, the Metro Bus Service transitioned to the new contractor, which subsequently dismissed the existing workforce and began recruiting new personnel. They asserted that despite possessing valid contracts until 2027, their outstanding wages were still unpaid. The administration’s repeated assurances regarding payment have not materialised, leading to a growing sense of frustration among the workforce.

Many of those affected had been with the Metro Bus Service for periods ranging from eight to ten years, and in several instances, they were the primary breadwinners for their families. The employees called upon Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for immediate intervention to ensure the release of their overdue salaries.

Response from Authorities and Outcome of Protests

Despite repeated attempts to contact Punjab Mass Transit Authority’s Operations Manager for Rawalpindi-Islamabad, Wajid Saleem was unavailable for comment. A senior official from the authority confirmed that operations were briefly halted in the morning but resumed after negotiations between the protesting workers and the management.

The official indicated that the new security company had assumed control on May 1, 2023, and subsequently made staffing decisions that included the dismissal of existing employees. These developments have raised questions about the future of the Metro Bus Service and the treatment of its workforce under the new administration.

This situation highlights not only the immediate concerns regarding employment and unpaid wages but also underscores broader issues related to job security and workers’ rights within the public transport sector in Pakistan. As discussions between the relevant parties continue, the outcomes remain uncertain, particularly for those who depend on their jobs for financial stability.

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