Private buses in Kerala to go on indefinite strike

Thiruvananthapuram: Private buses are set to go on an indefinite strike in the state. The strike has been called to press for demands such as the timely renewal of permits for long-distance and limited stop buses, and an increase in student concession fares. The announcement was made by office-bearers of the Bus Operators’ Federation at a press conference here.

The office-bearers stated that despite holding protest demonstrations, the government had failed to take any favourable action. They added that although they had initially opted for protest methods that would not inconvenience the public, the government responded with measures that disrupted public transport. As a result, they said they were compelled to go ahead with a strike by halting bus services.

The date of the strike will be announced in the coming days after discussions with other bus owners' associations and trade unions.