Locals demand employment, stage dharna ahead of Netaji Bus Terminal inauguration in Cuttack

Ahead of its grand inauguration, the Netaji Bus Terminal in Cuttack has now been saddled with controversy. Alleging lack of employment opportunities for the youths, the local residents on Sunday staged a demonstration on Sunday.

Irate over the administrative apathy, the locals blocked the busy Badambadi-Khannagar road in protest. Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik is scheduled to inaugurate the new Netaji Bus Terminal in Cuttack on September 16, 2023.

"CM Naveen Patnaik has established an international standard bus terminal. We had information regarding major employment opportunities at the bus terminal. Delhi-based service provider is engaging people and it has already completed the recruitment process. Every organisation has CSR activity and there is provision to provide employment to locals," alleged Tarun Pati, a protestor.

“There are several unemployed youths in local areas who can be employed as housekeeping, sweepers, and other works. No advertisement was also issued for filling up the vacancies,” he added.

Jonson Mohapatra, president of ward no 28 said, "We welcome the new bus terminal. But we are demanding employment for youths of nearly five localities here as per their eligibility.

Recently, the locals had also gheraoed the Mayor and MLA during the visit to the Bus Terminal ahead of its inauguration.

Meanwhile. the concerned government officials could not be contacted over the protest and demands by the local residents.