A statewide indefinite strike by the Odisha Drivers' Mahasangha has entered its second day, causing significant disruptions to public transportation. Nearly 4-5 lakh drivers have joined the protest, bringing the state's transportation system to a grinding halt. The strike, led by union president Prashant Menduli, aims to press the government to address seven key demands.

Key Demands:

- Inclusion of Auto-Rickshaw Drivers in Welfare Board: The union seeks to bring auto-rickshaw drivers under the Driver Welfare Board's ambit, providing them access to insurance, medical benefits, and social security.

- Pension and Allowance: Drivers are demanding a monthly pension and allowance for drivers above 60 years old.

- Parking and Toilets: Provision of parking slots and toilet facilities every 100 km on state highways.

- Driver's Day: Declaration of September 1 as 'Driver's Day' to recognize the contributions of drivers to the state's economy.

- Reservation for Odia Drivers: 70% reservation for Odia drivers in mining and industrial zones.

- Exemption from Police Checks: Opposition to granting vehicle-checking powers to the police.

- Rest Shelters: Construction of rest shelters for drivers at designated areas.

Government Response:

The Odisha government has held discussions with the drivers' union, with Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena assuring that their demands will be considered. However, no concrete resolution has been reached, and the strike continues. The minister emphasized that the government is committed to improving driver welfare and infrastructure.

The strike has severely affected public transportation, with buses and commercial vehicles off the roads in many places. Emergency services like ambulances and school buses have been exempted from the strike. The government is working to find a solution to the deadlock, but the strike is expected to continue until the drivers' demands are met.