Durgapur, 4 August (H.S.) Public transport in Durgapur came to a standstill on Monday as minibus and auto services were suspended indefinitely in protest against the growing number of illegal e-rickshaws (Totos) in the city. Locals struggled to find a means of transport on Monday due to the strike.

According to the protestors, the rising number of Totos has reduced their passenger base. Despite repeated complaints and appeals to the local administration, no action has been taken to regulate the situation.

Alok Chattopadhyay, president of the Minibus Owners’ Association, said, “We had observed a three-day strike back in May and had informed the authorities in advance. At that time, they promised to resolve the issue within two months, but no progress has been made. That is why we have been forced to take this step without prior notice.”

Interestingly, Totos were also absent from their usual stands on Monday morning. The silence from the Toto union has added to the uncertainty.

As of now, no official response has been received from the district administration or the Toto operators’ union regarding the ongoing crisis.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey