Bhubaneswar: With a threat to launch an indefinite strike, the Odisha State Private Bus Owners’ Association on Saturday issued a 10-day ultimatum to the state government to address its long-pending demands.
The association warned that private bus services across the state may come to a standstill if no action is taken within the stipulated period by the government.
The association took this decision at a meeting of its executive committee held in Cuttack.
Association general secretary Debendra Nath Sahoo said the bus owners would be left with no option but to launch an indefinite strike if the government fails to respond to its demands within 10 days.
The key issues raised by the association include a revision of bus fares and an increase in annual maintenance charges. Bus operators argued that rising operational expenses have made it increasingly difficult to sustain services under the existing fare structure and maintenance provisions.
The association also resolved to submit a memorandum to the state government, urging it to take immediate steps to address the concerns of private bus operators.
If the proposed strike materialises, private buses across Odisha could be taken off the roads, potentially disrupting public transport services and affecting thousands of daily commuters who rely on them for travel within and between districts.
The association expressed hope that the government would initiate discussions and take necessary steps before the deadline.
