Transport strike in West Bengal

KOLKATA: Transport services in the metropolis and districts of West Bengal were disrupted today with most private bus operators going off the roads in response to an indefinite strike call demanding an immediate fare hike.

Commuters were highly inconvenienced, with nearly 37,000 private buses, which carry a huge chunk of the over 40 lakh passengers per day, keeping off the roads.

Police said that though some state-run buses were on the roads, many passengers were unable to board them because of over-crowding.

Taxis and autorickshaws were in very high demand with commuters waiting at various points in the city.

There was also heavy rush for availing the Metro Rail and ferry services in the city.

Reports of the private bus operators' strike were also reported from various districts as also from North Bengal.

Private bus operators went on an indefinite strike demanding a fare hike following diesel price increase of Rs 5 per litre.

Transport Minister Madan Mitra had earlier said that the number of state-run buses on the roads would be increased to cushion the effect of the strike.