India: Possible nationwide railway strike on August 20

Event

A group of railway contractors has threatened to carry out a nationwide strike on Sunday, August 20. Consequently, disruptions - delays and cancelations - are possible across the national railway network.

Context

According to the contractors, they have not been paid since July 1. This failure of payment is due to a lack of clarity as to how the new Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates are to be implemented without adversely affecting contractors.

The vice president of the Indian Railway Infrastructure Providers Association met with Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu to find a solution but to no avail.

Advice

Individuals present in India are advised to monitor the situation and to allow more time for their journeys.