Rajasthan Private Bus Operators Go on Statewide Strike Over Heavy Penalties

Private bus operators across Rajasthan observed a statewide strike on Saturday, protesting against what they describe as the strict and unilateral enforcement of bus body code regulations and the imposition of hefty fines by the Transport Department. The strike is expected to severely disrupt passenger services, with thousands of private buses staying off the roads.

Passenger Services Hit Across Major Routes

According to operators, Rajasthan has nearly 10,000 sleeper buses currently in operation. Due to the strike, private bus services on major intercity and long-distance routes are likely to remain suspended, causing significant inconvenience to passengers, particularly those travelling overnight or across districts.

Operators Allege Arbitrary Fines Despite Compliance

Kailash Sharma, Vice-President of the Private Bus Operators Association (Stage Carriage), said that enforcement actions against sleeper buses have intensified following the Jaisalmer bus accident. “Even after completing all required formalities and uploading documents online with proper receipts, buses are being challaned during field inspections and subjected to heavy penalties,” he alleged.

He further stated that when operators protest against such actions, buses are often stopped mid-route, forcing passengers to wait on highways and roadsides, adding to public hardship.

Agreements with Government Not Being Honoured

Rajendra Sharma, President of the All Rajasthan Contract Carriage Bus Operators Association, said that after discussions with the state government, operators had agreed to implement several safety-related modifications. These included four emergency exits, fire safety systems, glass-breaking hammers, and the removal of rooftop luggage carriers.

“Despite full compliance with these safety norms, enforcement drives against private buses continue unabated. This is unfair and demoralising for the entire industry,” he said.

Threat of Complete Shutdown

Bus operators have warned that if the current actions are not halted, all categories of bus services in Rajasthan may be completely shut down in the coming days. In a letter submitted to the government under the banner of Bus Operator Society Rajasthan, operators highlighted multiple unresolved issues related to bus body code norms, registration type approvals, body manufacturers, and designated parking facilities.

The associations have urged the state government to intervene urgently and resolve the matter, warning that prolonged disruption would harm both passengers and the transport sector.