Sambalpur: ‘Mo Bus’ Strike in Sambalpur; Protest Against Management Over Poor Working Conditions
Sambalpur: The ongoing employee strike has created a severe traffic problem in Sambalpur. The exact location of bus stops is unclear which creates additional challenges. An incident at Gangadhar Meher University recently escalated into a serious altercation between a ‘Mo Bus’ driver and a local individual. The driver was suspended for seven days after filing a complaint with management.
Management’s Response and Employee Grievances
Critics have condemned management for their harsh treatment and lack of support for drivers dealing with difficult traffic conditions. Employees have reported that managers verbally abuse them if they stop the bus at unauthorized locations and penalize them with salary cuts for minor infractions. Moreover, the drivers claim that their wages are insufficient to support their families, and they are not provided with adequate job security or safety measures.
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Employee Strike
In response to these grievances, ‘Mo Bus’ employees began a steering wheel strike at 7 a.m., bringing the entire bus service to a halt. Despite being aware of these issues, management allegedly ignored them, prompting employees to take drastic measures. The striking employees demanded written assurances from management that their concerns would be addressed, and they threatened to continue striking until their demands were met.
Public Impact and Ongoing Negotiations
The strike has caused significant inconvenience for commuters, particularly those heading to Burla, Dhama, Maneswar, and Jharsuguda. With the ‘Mo Bus’ service suspended, alternative buses and private transportation are overcrowded, leaving many passengers stranded.
Traffic and Infrastructure Issues
In addition to employee complaints, the city’s traffic infrastructure is insufficient for the current ‘Mo Bus’ route. Unauthorized encroachments and narrow roads make the problem worse. Notably, the road between Lakshmi Talkies and Bhakara Tal is particularly congested, with frequent traffic jams and the risk of an accident near the overbridge.
To address these issues, authorities must take immediate action to improve road conditions and remove illegal encroachments. To avoid further disruptions and ensure smooth public transportation in Sambalpur, officials must address demands for better infrastructure and provide equitable treatment to ‘Mo Bus’ employees.
