Odisha Bus Strike Suspended: Temporary Relief, June 29 Deadline for Govt Action
Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Private Bus Owners’ Association has suspended its proposed statewide strike scheduled for June 10, 2026, following discussions with the Transport Commissioner.
The decision brings temporary relief to commuters across the state, though operators have warned that agitation may resume if demands are not met by June 30.
General Secretary Debendra Kumar Sahoo confirmed the suspension, stressing that the government must act before the June 29 deadline.
The State Transport Authority (STA) will prepare a fare revision proposal based on 14 parameters, which will be reviewed by the government before implementation.
Earlier, on June 2, the Odisha government had announced a marginal fare hike in response to rising diesel prices.
Ordinary bus fares increased from Rs 0.90 to Rs 0.92 per km, express buses from Rs 0.94 to Rs 0.96, deluxe buses from Rs 1.31 to Rs 1.35, AC deluxe buses from Rs 1.59 to Rs 1.63, and super deluxe buses from Rs 2.47 to Rs 2.53 per km.
Despite this revision, bus operators argue that fuel, maintenance, insurance, and overhead costs continue to strain operations.
They are demanding a more substantial fare increase and higher annual maintenance charges to sustain services.
