Odisha Drivers’ Protest Enters Fourth Day, Fuel Crisis Looms
Bhubaneswar, July 11(OT webdesk) — Odisha’s transport sector continues to face turmoil as the ‘Quit Steering Wheel’ protest launched by the Odisha Drivers’ Mahasangha stretches into its fourth day.
The statewide shutdown has stranded thousands and disrupted essential services, triggering rising public concern.
From hospital patients and schoolchildren to daily commuters, the impact has been severe.
Many citizens have been forced to walk long distances due to the near-total halt of buses, taxis, and autos, particularly in rural and semi-urban regions where alternatives are scarce.
The protest centres around a six-point charter of demands. Despite hints of government acknowledgement, protesters insist on a written assurance before resuming operations.
With negotiations stalled, the fuel distribution network is now unravelling.
Odisha typically consumes 36 lakh litres of petrol and 85 lakh litres of diesel daily. Out of 600 regular fuel tankers, only around 400 remain operational.
Fuel stations—normally equipped with four-day buffer stocks—are facing depleting reserves. Panic buying has already begun in parts of the state.
State officials, including the Food and Supplies Minister, have urged calm and claimed sufficient stock exists.
Still, mounting pressure from citizens, industries, and opposition leaders has intensified calls for a swift resolution.
If the deadlock continues, experts warn of a full-blown crisis affecting healthcare logistics, food supplies, and economic mobility statewide.
