A day after employees of the Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) staged a sit-in protest against the dismissal of their colleagues, metro services in the city have been affected for the second consecutive day. However, Metro Rail has claimed this as technical glitch. Eight persons were dismissed over complaints of misconduct at work, officials said.
But the staff said they were not paid on a par with the contract staff. According to CMRL officials, they had to be dismissed as they acted against the interests of the company. A CMRL statement said late on Monday night: "Chennai Metro Rail has always endeavored to provide the people of Chennai the best sustainable services of world class.
In connection with the recent incidents taken place regarding the Chennai Metro Rail Non Executive Staffs protest at CMRL Admin Building, we would like to inform that the Diploma & ITI staff have been well paid and CMRL has adheared to norms. It is also being highlighted that the Non Executive cadre are provided with wages which are double the market wages , in addition to 5-10% wage hike ,which has also been provided.
Further higher salaries would mean higher fare for the public , which is not sustainable. We would also like to inform that all Metro Train services have been maintained and functioning to the fullest. Metro Rail passengers are requested to bear with us and continue to provide their full cooperation and support. Today we are able to provide services without any hindrance and Regular services will continue to operate tomorrow also."
