Employees of the West Zone Power Distribution Company (Ozopadico) highlighted severe deprivation and unfair wages during a press conference held at Khulna Press Club on Sunday. Organizational leaders warned that if the current situation continues, the quality of electricity service will deteriorate and employees’ livelihoods will be at risk. They demanded fair wages, immediate recruitment to fill vacant posts, and an end to outsourcing.

According to the written statement by the organization’s general secretary, Ozopadico serves 1,728,316 customers through 10,786 kilometers of distribution lines and 97 substations, with only 440 officers and 964 workers. Each employee currently serves an average of 1,792 customers, causing excessive workload and declining service quality. The shortage of substation operators (SBA) was identified as a critical issue, with 119 of 344 positions vacant and further retirements expected by 2027.

The employees alleged that despite working 8 to 16 extra hours daily, they are not paid for 21,360 monthly overtime hours. They also claimed that recruitment notices issued in 2025 remain unimplemented and that outsourcing violates decent work principles. The organization warned of strong protests if their demands are not met.