Steel City Rourkela’s bus service has come to a halt as 100 buses remain idle at the bus stand. Bus workers have protested for about three hours, causing significant trouble for the city’s residents. The situation escalated due to the rude behaviour of some unruly youths, prompting Rourkela DSP to visit the stand and engage with the agitating workers.
Around 1 o’clock this afternoon, a bus was picking up passengers near Rourkela New Bus Stand when a stray dog suddenly ran in front of it. The bus struck the dog, but fortunately, the dog ran away unscathed. Following this incident, three youths confronted the bus staff, scolding them harshly, and there are allegations that they physically attacked the workers.
After the confrontation, the driver and staff sought refuge at the bus stand, while other drivers learned about the situation and hurried back to safety. Currently, 100 buses operating in Rourkela are stationary at the stand, as employees continue their protest. My bus workers have now been agitating for the past three hours.
In response to the unrest, DSP Nirlam Kumar Mohapatra arrived at the bus stand after receiving reports about the workers’ agitation. He attempted to communicate with the bus staff; however, they remained adamant in their demands. They insist that authorities arrest the three youths involved and file a formal case. As of now, the agitation continues.