Copyright indiatimes
AGRA: Thousands of vehicles passed through the Agra-Lucknow Expressway in Uttar Pradesh’s Fatehabad on Monday without paying toll charges after workers, upset over their Diwali bonus, opened all the gates. The protest caused major disruption to toll operations and traffic flow, prompting police intervention.The unrest began when 21 employees at the Fatehabad toll plaza, managed by Shri Sign & Datar company, expressed anger over receiving only Rs 1,100 as a Diwali bonus.The company, which took over toll management in March this year, has faced disputes over bonus calculation and distribution.Demanding a higher bonus, the workers stopped work and opened all toll gates, allowing vehicles to pass freely.As thousands of vehicles crossed without payment, toll authorities tried to deploy staff from other plazas, but protesters prevented replacements from taking over, worsening the situation.Police arrived at the spot to maintain order and facilitate talks between company officials and the agitating workers.After discussions, the company assured employees of better conditions and announced a 10% salary hike as an immediate relief.Following the assurance, employees resumed work, restoring normal operations after a two-hour disruption.Shri Sign & Datar maintained its stance on the limited Diwali bonus, citing that it took charge only in March and could not offer a full-year bonus.Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Happy Diwali wishes, messages and quotes !
