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A major launch of the biggest two-stage rocket developed in the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre at Thumba has been postponed due to an employee protest. The planned launch for August 26 was disrupted by a section of employees who prevented the testing of the ignitor for launching the Rohini-560 rocket.

The rocket has the capacity to carry a 100-kg scientific payload and reach an altitude of 300 kms. The protest has also affected the preparatory work for launching a satellite from Sriharikota near Madras in 1978. The satellite fabrication process, currently underway in Bangalore, is expected to be completed by 1974.

In addition to disrupting rocket testing and satellite fabrication, the protesting employees have engaged in various acts of indiscipline. They have prevented the engagement of casual workers to remove stickers pasted on office buildings, causing damage to the walls. They have also accused the authorities of hiring goondas (hooligans) to handle the situation.

Furthermore, the employees have prevented the serving of cooked food worth Rs. 5,000, leading to a complete waste. The authorities purchase rice in the open market at a high price but charge a subsidized price of 65 paise for a full meal.

The employee protest has caused significant delays and disruptions in the activities at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre. The authorities will need to find a resolution to the ongoing issues in order to resume normal operations and proceed with the major rocket launch and satellite launch plans.

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