Bhubaneswar, 9 July (H.S.)The nationwide Bharat Bandh, called by various central trade unions to protest against the Central government’s alleged “anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate” policies, significantly affected the transport sector across Odisha, particularly in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack.

In Bhubaneswar, protesters demonstrated at key locations including the railway station, bus stands, Master Canteen Square, Vani Vihar, and Janpath, leading to severe traffic disruptions. Both ‘Ama Bus’ services and private buses were heavily impacted, leaving many commuters stranded at bus terminals and major intersections.

Protesters also blocked the Jaydev Vihar overbridge and several sections of the national highway, causing massive traffic congestion and long queues of vehicles. Hundreds of passengers waited for hours due to the suspension of public transportation.

After police intervention, traffic was gradually restored in several areas, including Master Canteen Square, and ‘Ama Bus’ services, which had been temporarily halted, resumed operations.

A protester remarked, “This is a nationwide agitation involving students, youth, farmers, workers, and employees from various sectors. Even banks and insurance offices have remained shut. It’s a complete shutdown from morning till evening.”

In Cuttack, the impact of the bandh was equally evident. Operations at the Netaji Subhash Bose Bus Terminal ceased entirely. Most private buses remained off the roads, with only a few government and ‘Ama Bus’ services in operation. Passengers were seen waiting for transportation with no clear options available.

Authorities continued to monitor the situation, deploying police forces at sensitive locations to maintain law and order during the bandh.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda