Baramunda Ama Bus–Auto Clash Sparks Protest, Police Intervention in Bhubaneswar
According to eyewitnesses, the dispute quickly turned physical, with the auto driver alleging assault by the bus conductor and driver.
Members of the Online Auto Drivers’ Mahasangh staged a protest, blocking all outgoing city buses and causing traffic disruption across the busy junction.
Police from Bharatpur station rushed to the spot, mediating between both sides and restoring normalcy. Zone ACP Tapas Pradhan confirmed that action would follow if formal complaints were lodged.
Auto driver Pradyumna Kumar Padhi sustained injuries in the scuffle. Union president Dinabandhu Nayak condemned the incident, demanding better training and behaviour from Mo Bus staff.
Meanwhile, CRUT’s internal probe blamed the auto driver, alleging he was under the influence and deliberately obstructed the bus. Authorities said they would file a police complaint against him.
This clash comes amid a series of recent Ama Bus‑related incidents, including a fatal accident at Rupali Square, a fire near Kalinga Studio, and multiple crashes in December.
Public frustration over road safety has grown, prompting the Chief Minister to order stricter driver checks and improved service orientation.
