Punjab Hikes Monthly Pay of Contractual Safai Sewaks, Sewermen to ₹20,500; Strike Called Off

Chandigarh, July 27, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)

The Punjab Government on Monday announced a substantial increase in the monthly remuneration of contractual Safai Sewaks and Sewermen, raising it to ₹20,500 with effect from August 1, 2026. The decision follows successful talks between the state government and representatives of the sanitation workers’ unions, leading to the withdrawal of the ongoing strike across the state.

The announcement was made by Local Government Minister Harjot Singh Bains after extensive deliberations held with union representatives in the presence of Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema. The discussions were attended by Punjab Raj Safai Karamchari Commission Chairman Chandan Grewal and Punjab Dalit Vikas Board Chairman Vijay Danav.

Addressing a press conference at Punjab Bhawan, Harjot Singh Bains said the revised remuneration would bring contractual sanitation workers employed by Urban Local Bodies and Improvement Trusts on par with the gross monthly pay received by regular Safai Sewaks and Sewermen during their probation period.

He said the revised remuneration of ₹20,500 marks a significant increase from the earlier contractual wages, which had recently been enhanced from ₹10,500 to ₹14,000 before the latest revision.

According to the minister, the move is expected to benefit thousands of contractual sanitation workers and their families. He added that directions have been issued to all Urban Local Bodies and Improvement Trusts to implement the revised remuneration from August 1.

Harjot Singh Bains described sanitation workers as the backbone of urban civic services and said the Bhagwant Mann-led government remains committed to ensuring dignity, fair compensation and social justice for frontline workers.

Referring to the recent incident in Barnala involving sanitation workers, the minister said a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been constituted to investigate the matter and ensure swift justice. He reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of workers and promoting a cleaner, healthier and more equitable Punjab.