Bhubaneswar: The Odisha State Private Bus Owners’ Association on Saturday issued a 10-day ultimatum to the state government to address its long-pending demands, warning that private bus services across the state could come to a standstill if no action is taken within the stipulated period.
The decision was taken at the executive committee meeting held in Cuttack which was attended by office-bearers and representatives from various districts of the State.
Association General Secretary Debendra Nath Sahoo said the organisation would be left with no option but to launch an indefinite strike if the government fails to respond to its demands within the next 10 days.
Among the key issues raised by the association are 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 corrective measures before the deadline expires, thereby averting a statewide transport disruption.
