Bhubaneswar: Bus services under the Ama Bus initiative were disrupted on Tuesday as staff staged a protest at Master Canteen Square demanding increased safety measures following an alleged assault on a conductor and driver.
According to protesting staff, a group of 5 to 7 persons attacked the driver of Route No. 23 near Bhubaneswar Railway Station while the bus was en route to SUM Hospital. The incident reportedly stemmed from a dispute over roadside dust, which allegedly angered the group. The driver sustained a head injury and was admitted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar.
“This kind of attack is unacceptable. We begin duty at 5 am and return home late at night after serving the public. Even if there is a mistake, it should not lead to violence,” said one of the protesting conductors.
Staff members emphasized that this was not the first instance of assault and warned that services would remain affected until the government ensures their protection.
“We demand the immediate arrest of those involved and assurance from the authorities that such incidents will not be repeated,” a conductor added.
In this regard, Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) released a press statement regarding the incident, clarifying that the bus guide, Trilochana Parida, was physically assaulted by bikers inside the depot premises.
He is currently receiving medical treatment at a local hospital. The incident was captured on depot CCTV footage and is under active investigation.
A formal FIR has been registered at the designated Police Station,” the notification stated.
