Bhubaneswar: Passengers and commuters across Odisha are having a harrowing experience due to a 12-hour statewide strike from 6 am to 6 pm observed by the All Odisha Auto-rickshaw and Taxi Drivers’ Association today.

Students, Office goers and others were seen waiting for the three-wheelers at various junctions to reach their respective destinations.

The body has demanded a mechanism for fixing fares as per increase and decrease in fuel price, similar to that of bus fare mechanism in the state.

The association is also opposing an increase in the fitness tax and insurance premium. "After implementation of the Smart City project in Bhubaneswar, auto-rickshaws will not be allowed to ply on the main roads. We oppose the decision," said Padman Samal, General Secretary of the association.

"While there are facilities for app-based taxi and auto-rickshaw services at railway stations and airport, we are not provided with parking space. Besides, we don't have any social security," Samal added.