Kolkata Faces Transport Crisis as Private Bus Operators Launch 3-Day Strike
Date: May 22, 2025
Location: Kolkata, West Bengal
Kolkata is grappling with significant transportation disruptions as a three-day statewide strike by private bus operators commenced today. The strike, initiated by a coalition of five private bus operators' associations, follows unsuccessful negotiations with the West Bengal government over longstanding grievances.
Core Demands of the Bus Operators
The bus operators have outlined several key demands:
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Extension of Vehicle Lifespan: A two-year extension for buses older than 15 years, allowing them to remain operational beyond the current regulatory limits.
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Addressing Police Harassment: An end to alleged police excesses concerning traffic violations, which operators claim have been punitive and unjust.
Despite multiple rounds of discussions, the state transport department and the bus operators failed to reach a consensus, prompting the latter to proceed with the strike.
Impact on Daily Commuters
The strike has led to severe disruptions in daily commuting, with thousands of passengers stranded across various parts of the city. Many rely heavily on private buses for their daily travel, and the sudden withdrawal of services has caused chaos, especially during peak hours.
Alternative modes of transportation, including government-run buses and metro services, are experiencing increased pressure as they attempt to accommodate the surge in passengers.
Government's Response
The West Bengal government has expressed concern over the strike's impact on the public and has urged the bus operators to return to the negotiating table. Officials have indicated a willingness to discuss the operators' demands further but have also emphasized the need to minimize inconvenience to the public.
In the interim, the government is deploying additional state-run buses to mitigate the transportation crisis and ensure that essential services remain unaffected.
Public Advisory
Authorities advise commuters to plan their journeys in advance and consider alternative transportation options where possible. Employers are encouraged to offer flexible working hours or remote work arrangements to employees affected by the strike.
This ongoing situation underscores the critical role of private bus operators in Kolkata's transportation infrastructure and highlights the need for effective dialogue between stakeholders to resolve such disputes amicably.
Source: World Watch Daily,
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