Ama Bus Staff Protest in Bhubaneswar After Guide Assaulted by Miscreants

Bhubaneswar: City bus services in Bhubaneswar were partially disrupted on Monday as Ama Bus staff staged a protest demanding enhanced security measures following the alleged assault of a bus guide by bike-borne miscreants late Sunday night. The incident prompted the Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) to issue an official statement addressing the matter and outlining the steps being taken to ensure staff safety.

According to CRUT, Trilochana Parida, a guide with Ama Bus, was physically assaulted on May 12 while on duty aboard a bus operating on Route No. 23 from IGKC Hospital to Master Canteen. The attack occurred near the Ayurvedic Hospital stoppage, following a confrontation between the bus crew and a group of bikers.

The altercation reportedly stemmed from dust and poor road conditions caused by ongoing construction work in the area. The situation escalated when the bikers, who were allegedly travelling in the wrong direction on a one-way road, began chasing the bus aggressively. For the safety of the passengers and crew, the bus diverted its route, avoiding the conflict zone and heading from Fire Station to Baramunda, then to Acharya Vihar, and finally reaching the Gadakana Depot without stopping en route.

CRUT clarified that during the incident, the bus maintained a speed limit of 40 km/h and ensured no passengers or bystanders were harmed. One commuter who had boarded the bus near SUM Hospital safely deboarded at the depot. It was also noted that due to the urgency of the situation, the bus entered the depot through an incorrect entry point, which was recorded on CCTV and is under review.

At the depot, the biker group reportedly confronted the crew, and Parida was assaulted during the altercation. He is currently undergoing treatment at a local hospital. Breathalyzer tests conducted by the police on the bus driver and conductor confirmed that neither was under the influence of alcohol. A formal FIR has been registered at the concerned police station.

Meanwhile, CRUT officials are holding discussions with agitating Ama Bus staff at Master Canteen and Gadakana Depot, who have halted operations demanding greater protection for transport workers. The agency reiterated its commitment to staff welfare and stated that further steps will be taken to enhance security protocols for all personnel.