Odisha Private Bus Owners Issue 10-Day Ultimatum, Warn of Statewide Strike

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha State Private Bus Owners’ Association on Saturday warned of a statewide indefinite strike if the state government fails to address its long-pending demands within the next 10 days.

The decision was taken during the association’s executive committee meeting held in Cuttack, attended by office-bearers and representatives from various districts across Odisha.

Association General Secretary Debendra Nath Sahoo said private bus operators are facing increasing financial pressure due to rising operational costs and urged the government to take immediate steps to resolve their concerns.

Among the key demands raised by the association are a revision of bus fares and an increase in annual maintenance charges. According to the operators, the current fare structure is no longer viable in view of escalating expenses related to vehicle operation and upkeep.

The association has decided to submit a memorandum to the state government seeking prompt intervention and a favourable resolution of the issues.

Bus owners warned that if no concrete action is taken within the stipulated period, private bus services across Odisha could be suspended indefinitely, potentially causing major inconvenience to thousands of passengers who depend on these services for daily travel within and between districts.

The association expressed hope that the government would initiate dialogue and take necessary measures before the deadline, preventing disruption to public transportation services across the state.