Odisha Bandh / Private Buses in Odisha to Ply Tomorrow Despite Congress' Bandh Call

Bhubaneswar, Oct 7: Private bus services will continue to operate across Odisha on Thursday despite the bandh call given by the Congress, the Odisha Private Bus Owners' Association said on Wednesday.

Although the number of buses on the roads may be lower than usual, the association said it would make adequate arrangements to ensure that passengers are not inconvenienced.

Barada Prasanna Acharya, a member of the association, said ensuring uninterrupted transport services and minimising disruption to commuters remained its priority. Private bus operators have been advised to run services wherever feasible to facilitate the movement of passengers across the State.

Congress bandh call

The Congress has called for an Odisha bandh on Thursday, prompting concerns over the impact on transportation and other essential services. While several organisations may decide their course of action regarding the shutdown, private bus operators have made it clear that they will not extend support to the bandh.

The association criticised the frequent bandh calls, arguing that repeated shutdowns adversely affect transport operators and cause substantial financial losses to bus owners. It said transport services are often among the worst-hit sectors during such protests.

Demand for police protection

The Odisha Private Bus Owners’ Association has urged the Odisha Police to provide adequate security to buses operating during the bandh. It expressed concern that vehicles could be targeted by protesters during the course of the agitation.

Association leaders said police deployment would help ensure smooth movement of buses and protect both passengers and staff from any untoward incidents.
Also Read: BJD Changes Stand on Odisha Bandh Within 30 Minutes; Pramila Mallik Says 'We Won't Support It'

Warning against vandalism

The association also warned that strict action would be sought if buses are damaged during the bandh. It said complaints would be lodged with local police stations if any bus is vandalised, including incidents involving broken window panes or damage to vehicles.

Further, the association stressed that any harm caused to passengers or disruption of services would be taken seriously and reported to authorities.