Pantnagar SIDCUL auto sector: output up 35-40 per cent on Diwali demand, work in three shifts; 2,000-3,000 temporary workers hired in a month

Diwali demand has raised output in the Pantnagar SIDCUL auto sector by 35 to 40 per cent. According to Amar Ujala, work is going on day and night at vendor companies of Bajaj, Ashok Leyland, Mahindra and Tata. Companies began working in three shifts from the end of September and many have overtime on Sundays as well. About 2,000 to 3,000 temporary workers have been hired in the past month at more than 100 auto parts companies in SIDCUL. According to Ajay Tiwari, former president of the SIDCUL Association, bookings of two-wheelers and commercial vehicles are 40 per cent higher than last year. More bookings have come from rural areas this time. Association president Gajendra Singh said many companies have announced bonuses and gifts and the pace is expected to last until December. According to the report, contract workers are still waiting for their Diwali bonus and gifts.