The Hindu Business Line : Oil PSU officers to go on strike from today

New Delhi, Aug. 20 Almost 45,000 oil officers of public sector companies have decided to go on an indefinite strike from Tuesday, as their talks with Government failed.

The Oil Sector Officers Association (OSOA), a representative body of officers from the nine oil sector PSUs including ONGC, has called for an indefinite strike.

OSOA has been seeking release of ad hoc payment and withdrawal of tax on perquisites like company-provided accommodation, besides merger of 50 per cent dearness allowance with basic pay.

The strike could have an impact on operations of refineries and aviation refuelling facilities. Subsequently, crude oil and gas production would also be affected. Mr Ashok Singh, Convener of OSOA said, “we will be going on an indefinite strike from tomorrow.” As per estimates, the companies would be losing Rs 1,400 crore per day due to strike.

Contingency plan

A contingency plan for running key installations such as oil and gas producing wells, refineries and aviation facilities with the help of Territorial Army has been put in place. Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) said that all aspects to insure that consumer is not inconvenienced would be taken.

“Retail outlets have stocks for 2-3 days but when a strike happens there will be panic buying. Besides, refinery operations will be hit,” IOC said. IOC has an inventory of 30 days, but petrol pumps would be able to manage for 2-3 days with present stocks.

Airlines may be hit

The strike could lead to severe disruption of airlines. While officially airlines maintain that they have no plans to curtail or cut flights, unofficially they feel that there could be some disruption.

“An aircraft can carry a maximum of 20 tonnes of fuel. However, if any airline carries that much fuel then they would be able to fill only half the aircraft with passengers. When a flight starts an airline carries about 5-6 tonnes of fuel that allows them to carry a full load of passengers. The aircraft refuels at the city where they land so as to continue with the journey. If the strike is called, an airline may look at curtailing flights as the supply of fuel would be in question,” a senior airline official said.

More Stories on : Petroleum | Human Resources | Trade & Labour Unions

Article E-Mail :: Comment :: Syndication :: Printer Friendly Page