Ama Bus services halt in Bhubaneswar as drivers strike over ‘unpaid wages’

Bus services under the state-run Ama Bus network came to a halt in Bhubaneswar on Saturday after several drivers launched a ‘steering-down’ strike over non-payment of salaries.

According to reports, at least 43 buses, managed by CRUT (Capital Region Urban Transport), remained off the road from the Pokhariput depot as workers alleged they had not received wages for 42 days. The striking drivers accused the private contractor, Chakra Transport, of withholding payments despite repeated assurances.

Workers Highlight Salary And Welfare Issues

Drivers said they were entitled to receive wages by the 10th of every month, but while last month’s salaries were cleared only on the 11th, the current month’s payment has not reached their accounts.

“For three days, we have been told the money has been transferred, but nothing has been credited. We have families to feed, and such false promises have left us on the edge and helpless,” alleged a driver.

Protesters also raised concerns over the lack of weekly offs, excessive duty hours, absence of restrooms, and non-provision of ESI and CRUT-linked benefits. In an interaction with the media, they questioned who would ensure their social security when recruitment was being done under third-party arrangements.

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Operations Disrupted Until Demands Addressed

With the Pokhariput depot paralysed, commuters in Bhubaneswar faced disruptions on several routes. Meanwhile, the striking workers said they would not resume operations until their pending wages and welfare concerns were addressed.

As of the last reports, neither CRUT nor Chakra Transport officials have responded to the allegations. No official has also reached out to inspect the situation at the protest site.

Earlier Accidents Put Network Under Scrutiny

The strike comes at a time when the Ama Bus service has been under public scrutiny due to recent mishaps.

Last week, at least 15 passengers were injured, two of them critically, after an Ama Bus collided with a stationary tanker near Chhatilagada in Choudwar, Cuttack district. Witnesses alleged the vehicle was speeding beyond its permitted limit when it rammed the tanker on NH-16.

The injured were rushed to local hospitals and later referred to SCB Medical College in Cuttack.