Shimla, May 15 -- More than 900 sanitation workers engaged under the Shimla Environment, Heritage Conservation and Beautification Society (SEHB) Welfare Workers Union went on an indefinite strike on Friday, demanding restoration of a 10 per cent wage component allegedly withdrawn by the authorities and implementation of the 4-9-14 pay scale pattern applicable to government employees.

The strike began despite the Shimla district administration invoking the Himachal Pradesh Essential Services (Maintenance) Act, 1973, prohibiting the proposed agitation, citing concerns over public health, sanitation and tourism during the peak summer season.

Protesting workers said they were prepared to face action from the administration if their demands ...