The Gujarat government provided Rs 25 lakh each to 115 families of Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) employees who succumbed to Covid-19 while on duty during the pandemic. Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi distributed the financial aid in Gandhinagar, acknowledging the employees as frontline workers in public transport. The decision to assist the families was made under the recognition of the employees’ service as “Corona Warriors” on humanitarian grounds.
The financial assistance was granted as a compassionate gesture by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, surpassing the usual legal and administrative protocols for corporation employees. Despite the complexities involved, the government acknowledged the employees’ sacrifices and approved the aid. Sanghavi emphasized the employees’ dedication during the pandemic, highlighting their commitment to providing essential transport services while risking their own health.
GSRTC employees, including drivers and conductors, continued their duties throughout the pandemic, ensuring essential transport services were operational when most people were confined indoors. Sanghavi expressed the government’s gratitude for their selfless service and acknowledged the irreplaceable loss suffered by the families. While recognizing that no amount of financial aid can compensate for the loss of a family member, he assured ongoing support for the affected families.
Minister of State for Transport Pravin Mali, along with other officials and family members of the deceased employees, attended the program where the financial aid was distributed. The government reiterated its commitment to standing by the families of the deceased employees and pledged continued support during challenging times.
