Tension erupted at Baramunda Bus Stand in Odisha’s capital after a minor collision between a CRUT-run Ama Bus and an auto-rickshaw escalated into a confrontation, leading the Online Auto Drivers’ Mahasangh to block all outgoing city buses.
The incident began on Baramunda Road when the Ama Bus allegedly forced the auto-rickshaw to the side, sparking a heated argument between the bus crew and the auto driver. The dispute quickly turned physical.
In protest, union members gathered at the bus stand, initially demonstrating in front of the buses before halting all departures. The blockade caused significant traffic disruption in the area.
Bharatpur police promptly arrived, engaged both sides in dialogue, and normalised the situation. Bus services resumed shortly afterwards.
Zone ACP Tapas Pradhan confirmed that authorities will take appropriate action upon receiving any formal complaint.
Preliminary reports indicate that the Ama Bus conductor and driver allegedly assaulted auto driver Pradyumna Kumar Padhi, who sustained injuries.
Online Auto Drivers’ Mahasangh president Dinabandhu Nayak condemned the incident and stressed the need for better training and behavioural improvements among Mo Bus staff to ensure passenger safety. He pointed out widespread public dissatisfaction with Ama Bus services, noting a rise in accidents and calling for immediate measures to address the issue.
CRUT, meanwhile, conducted an internal probe and attributed fault to the auto driver, claiming he was driving under the influence, initiated the argument, and deliberately blocked the bus. Authorities stated they intend to file a police complaint against him.
This clash follows a series of recent Ama Bus-related incidents, including a fatal accident at Rupali Square in early January, where a bus struck an auto-rickshaw, a fire onboard a bus near Kalinga Studio, and multiple crashes in December.
These events have drawn serious concern from the Chief Minister, prompting the transport department to intensify driver checks and issue directives for improved service orientation. Growing public frustration over such incidents continues to raise questions about road safety in the capital.
