Bus Operators Clash Amid Strike in Jaipur, Pilgrims to Khatu Shyam Face Double Fares

Jaipur, 25 February 2026: Rajasthan’s private bus strike entered its second day on Wednesday, bringing the state’s road transport system to a near standstill. Approximately 35,000 sleeper, state carriage, and local transport buses remained off the roads, leaving commuters stranded and the government struggling to resolve the deadlock.

Violence at Durgapura Bus Stand
Tensions escalated at Jaipur’s Durgapura bus stand on Wednesday morning when striking operators clashed with rival bus operators. Some private buses had begun operating despite the strike, prompting the protesting operators to forcibly stop them. The dispute quickly turned chaotic, with attempts to make passengers disembark from buses. Striking operators warned that unless their demands are met, not a single private bus will run anywhere in Rajasthan.

Double Fares for Khatu Shyam Pilgrims
The strike’s impact has been particularly severe for pilgrims traveling to the Khatu Shyamji fair. Private taxi operators took advantage of the situation by doubling fares. Passengers complained:
“We booked our taxis weeks in advance, but now the operators are demanding exorbitant amounts. When we refuse, they threaten to cancel the bookings. With fewer state-run buses available, private taxis are exploiting travelers.”

Authorities Step In
Transport Commissioner Purushottam Sharma sent strict instructions to Jaipur Police Commissioner and Sikar officials to ensure safety. Authorities emphasized that operators running local transport services are willing to work and should be protected. Additional police personnel have been deployed along key routes, particularly Jaipur–Sikar, to prevent harassment by striking groups.

No Resolution Yet
Rajendra Sharma, president of the Rajasthan Contract Carriage Bus Operators Association, said that Wednesday’s talks with the government remained inconclusive. The government cited mismatched data for suspended RC buses to dismiss operators’ demands, while operators accused the transport department of harassing them with arbitrary fines. With no agreement in sight, the strike has now entered an indefinite phase, leaving passengers stranded and intensifying the conflict between the government and private operators.