Odisha Private Bus Owners Warn of Strike from January 24 Over Govt Scheme

Cuttack, Odisha – The Private Bus Owners’ Association has issued a stern warning that all private buses in Cuttack will cease operations from January 24, 2026, if the state government fails to address their demands by January 23.

The dispute stems from the Mukhyamantri Bus Seva, a government initiative that provides bus services from block headquarters to district headquarters.

Private operators argue that the scheme directly undermines their livelihood by cutting into passenger demand.

Association secretary Debendra Sahu stated that if the government does not suspend the scheme, the strike will escalate beyond Cuttack, potentially halting bus services across the entire state.

The association plans to submit a memorandum to the Chief Minister, urging immediate intervention.

Commuters fear widespread disruption if the strike proceeds, with thousands of daily passengers depending on private buses for essential travel.

The standoff highlights the growing tension between public welfare schemes and private operators struggling to sustain their businesses.