Protests erupted on Sunday following the deaths of an auto-rickshaw driver and a woman, who were hit by an ‘Ama Bus’ at Rupali Chhak in Bhubaneswar.
Members of the Online Smart City Auto Mahasangh staged a demonstration outside the CRUT Gajabandha bus depot, demanding justice and compensation for the driver’s family. Protesters raised slogans, accusing authorities of negligence and calling for accountability and immediate support for the bereaved family.
In response, the Odisha government announced financial assistance. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed grief over the incident and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund (CMRF) for the next of kin. He also directed officials to provide proper training to bus drivers to prevent similar accidents in the future.
The protesters have also demanded stricter safety measures, better regulation of public transport, and a fair investigation into the accident, urging action against those responsible.
Police and transport officials reached the site to manage the situation and held discussions with the demonstrators. Normalcy was restored later in the day after assurances were given regarding safety reviews and further action.
The incident has reignited concerns over road safety and public transport management in Bhubaneswar.
