Bhubaneswar: Bhubaneswar’s public transport system faced significant disruption on Saturday due to a ‘steering down’ protest launched by Ama Bus drivers.
According to reports, the drivers, demanding timely payment of salaries, parked 43 buses at the Pokhariput depot, stranding daily commuters and causing inconvenience across multiple routes.
The protesting drivers alleged that their salaries are typically credited by the 10th of every month. However, while they received their August salary on the 11th, they haven’t received their September payment yet. This delay has prompted the drivers to protest, seeking immediate resolution.
The Ama Bus drivers also complained about the lack of proper restrooms and excessive duty pressure due to overwork. Furthermore, they are not receiving adequate weekly offs.
According to the protesters, they are not receiving Employees’ State Insurance (ESI) benefits, which is a significant concern for them. Moreover, the drivers are also alleged that they are not being paid their salaries by Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) in a timely manner, adding to their financial difficulties.
