Bhubaneswar, July 10: The ongoing statewide strike by the Odisha Drivers’ Mahasangha has entered its fourth day, triggering widespread disruption in fuel supply and public transportation.

With no resolution emerging from discussions between the government and the protesting drivers, citizens across the state are facing mounting anxiety over petrol and diesel shortages.

The strike, which began as a protest demanding pension benefits, insurance coverage, job reservations, and welfare reforms, has led to the blockade of fuel tankers and essential goods carriers.

In districts like Cuttack, Balangir, and State capital-Bhubaneswar, long queues have formed at petrol pumps, with many stations running dry or rationing fuel amid panic buying.

In Narasinghpur, Cuttack, striking drivers staged symbolic protests by halting government buses and water supply vehicles, releasing them only after mock head-tapping rituals.

Similar scenes unfolded in Balangir’s Saintala area, where four tankers en route to Kalahandi were stopped by local driver unions. Despite police intervention, including SDPO-led negotiations, the tankers remained detained.

Food Suppliers and Consumer Welfare Minister, Krushna Chandra Patra held emergency talks with petroleum dealers and company representatives, assuring the public that fuel reserves are sufficient and urging restraint against panic buying.

According to the Utkal Petroleum Dealers’ Association, over 150 tankers have reached Bhubaneswar and 76 have arrived in Cuttack, with more enroute to the State.

The Odisha government has formed a multi-agency task force to monitor logistics and ensure uninterrupted supply of essential commodities. However, the drivers’ union remains firm, demanding written assurances before calling off the strike.

As the drivers’ union strike has continued for four days, all eyes are now on the state government—how it will respond to the drivers’ demands and when the agitation ends.

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