The Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India, has issued a notification extending the Public Utility Service (PUS) status for transport services (other than railways) under the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947.
This declaration covers passenger and goods transport by land or water, and is included under Item 1 of the First Schedule to the ID Act.
🔍 Background:
- The services were first declared as Public Utility Service for six months starting 16th February 2025 via Notification No. S.O. 821(E) dated 14th February 2025.
- The declaration was made in the public interest to ensure continuity of essential transport services and prevent disruptions.
🕒 Extension Details:
- The Central Government, being satisfied that public interest continues to require this status, has now extended the declaration.
- The extension is for a further period of six months, from 16th August 2025.
🧾 Legal Basis:
This notification is issued under the proviso to sub-clause (vi) of clause (n) of Section 2 of the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947.
Declaring a service as Public Utility under this Act implies stricter norms for strikes and lockouts, thereby ensuring uninterrupted transport services.
⚠️ Implications:
- Strikes in such services will now require mandatory notice under Section 22 of the ID Act.
- Employers and employees in this industry are legally obligated to follow dispute resolution protocols strictly.
📌 Conclusion:
This move aims to safeguard the public interest by ensuring that essential land and water-based transport services continue without disruption for another six months, until 15th February 2026.