Bhadrak: The Bhadrak bus syndicate halted all bus operations in the district on Tuesday protesting against alleged extortion demands.
According to sources, the agitators alleged that miscreants had been intercepting the buses and extorting money (daadaabati) from drivers and conductors on the pretext of Durga Puja as well as misbehaving with them.
Some miscreants had allegedly stopped six buses at Soro and demanded money from the drivers and conductors on Monday.
Although they have lodged a complaint in this regard with police, no action has been taken yet, they added.
As a result, passengers have been left stranded at the bus stand waiting for the resumption of services.
Till the filing of this report, Bhadrak Town Police had arrived at the spot and were trying to pacify the bus syndicate. The sub-collector is also expected to hold a discussion with them.