Gujarat Deputy CM distributes Rs 25 Lakh aid to families of GSRTC employees who lost their lives during COVID-19
Gandhinagar, July 23
During the COVID-19 pandemic, employees of the Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation served the public with dedication despite risking their own lives. Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi handed over cheques of Rs 25 lakh as financial assistance to the families of 115 GSRTC employees, including drivers and conductors, who were infected while on duty and lost their lives, a release said.
Addressing the programme, Dy CM said that administrative and legal decisions in government are generally taken in accordance with established laws and regulations.
Extending such assistance to Corporation employees under the existing legal and administrative framework was a separate and complex matter. However, instead of being guided solely by rules and regulations, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel took a compassionate decision 'from the heart'. Recognising the invaluable services rendered by these employees at the risk of their own lives, the Government, on humanitarian grounds, treated them as 'Corona Warriors' in this special case and approved the financial assistance.
Dy CM said that during the difficult period of the COVID-19 pandemic, when people were confined to their homes, ST drivers, conductors, clerks, managers, and other employees continued performing their duties for the convenience of citizens without worrying about their own families.
"The Government will always remember their invaluable sacrifice. He emphasised that no financial assistance can replace the loss of a loved one," it added.
He added that the ST family has always been, and will always remain, a part of the Government's family. "The Government will continue to stand by these more than 115 families and support them in every possible way during difficult times"
The event was attended by Minister of State for Transport Pravin Mali, Principal Secretary Hareet Shukla, Transport Commissioner Rajendar Kumar, senior GSRTC officials, representatives of the Transport Department, and family members of the deceased employees.
— ANI
Reader Comments
This is a commendable step by the Gujarat government. During COVID-19, these ST drivers and conductors were literally on the frontlines while the rest of us stayed home. But I do wonder - why did it take so long? The pandemic was at its peak in 2020-21, and we're in 2024 now. Better late than never, I suppose. Let's hope this sets a precedent for other states too. 🤝
My uncle was a GSRTC driver and he worked through the lockdown without a second thought. He didn't get COVID, but many of his colleagues did. This compensation is a small justice for their families. I just wish the government had also provided better protective gear and insurance during the pandemic itself. Prevention is always better than compensation. ❤️
I appreciate that Dy CM Harsh Sanghavi and CM Bhupendra Patel took a "compassionate decision from the heart" instead of hiding behind rules. But I have a suggestion: instead of just one-time aid, why not create a recurring pension or education fund for the children of these deceased employees? A lump sum might get exhausted quickly. Still, good move overall. 💯
It's heartwarming to see a government acknowledge the sacrifice of its workers. In many countries, these essential workers were forgotten after the pandemic. However, I hope this isn't just a photo op for political gain. The real test will be the follow-up - ensuring these families receive continued support for education, healthcare, and mental health counseling after such a traumatic loss. 🙏
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