Odisha’s transport system continues to reel under severe disruption as the ‘Quit Steering Wheel’ protest by the Odisha Drivers’ Mahasangha entered its fourth consecutive day on Friday, July 11, 2025.
With thousands of drivers halting operations across the state, public inconvenience is mounting while a looming fuel crisis threatens to worsen.
Public Distress Spreads
Passengers, including the elderly, children, and patients discharged from hospitals, are stranded at bus terminals and transport hubs. Many have been forced to walk long distances in the absence of buses, autos, and taxis. The situation is especially dire in rural and semi-urban areas, where transport alternatives are minimal.
Demands and Deadlock
The Drivers’ Mahasangha is protesting with a six-point charter of demands and has refused to back down without a written assurance from the Odisha government. While officials have hinted at positive consideration of the demands, no formal resolution has been announced, prolonging the impasse.
Fuel Supply Disrupted
The ripple effects are now being felt in fuel logistics. Odisha typically consumes around 36 lakh litres of petrol and 85 lakh litres of diesel per day. Under normal conditions, about 600 fuel tankers operate daily. With the protest underway, only around 400 tankers are functioning.
Fuel stations, which usually maintain a four-day buffer stock, are at risk of depleting reserves if the protest continues. Though the Food and Supplies Minister has appealed for calm and assured the public of adequate supply, residents fear escalating shortages and have begun panic buying in some areas.
Government Under Pressure
The Odisha government is facing increasing calls from citizens, industry stakeholders, and opposition leaders to act swiftly. The strike has also raised concerns about the movement of essential goods, including medical supplies and food.
If the deadlock is not resolved soon, Odisha could face a statewide mobility and fuel crisis, severely impacting daily life and economic activity.
