Cuttack: The State Private Bus Owners’ Association gave the Odisha government a 10-day ultimatum to address its key demands, warning buses will go off the roads if their issues are not resolved within the stipulated time.

The decision was taken during an executive committee meeting held on Saturday, in which office-bearers from across various districts of the state took part.

Debendra Nath Sahoo, General Secretary of the bus owners’ association stated if the government fails to act on their demands within 10 days, they will be compelled to launch an indefinite strike, leading to a complete halt of private bus services across the State.

Among the key demands raised by the association are a hike in bus fares and an increase in annual maintenance charges. The members stressed the need for immediate intervention by the state government to address rising operational costs.

The association also decided to submit a memorandum to the government, urging it to take prompt steps to resolve the issues.

The proposed strike, if carried out, is likely to disrupt public transport services across the state and inconvenience to thousands of daily commuters.