No change in plan, private bus operators to go on strike from tomorrow
On Tuesday, Transport Department Secretary Soumitra Mohan convened a meeting to discuss the looming strike, appealing to bus and minibus owners to reconsider their decision to avoid inconveniencing the public.
Move to protest ‘targeted levying’ of fines by traffic police: Bus operators. Express photo by Partha Paul
COMMUTERS IN Kolkata are bracing for a trying time from Thursday as private bus operators across West Bengal have called for a three-day statewide strike.
On Tuesday, Transport Department Secretary Soumitra Mohan convened a meeting to discuss the looming strike, appealing to bus and minibus owners to reconsider their decision to avoid inconveniencing the public.
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The strike, stemming from “unresolved grievances” with the government, is expected to significantly disrupt daily commutes, leaving a large number of people scrambling for alternative transportation in the city.
According to the bus operatiors, the strike is aimed at protesting against alleged “targeted levying” of fines by traffic police and civic volunteers and the state government’s “inaction” regarding the replacement of 15-year-old buses.
However, representatives from the private bus organisations remained defiant, pointing out their intention to proceed with the strike. and road blockade.This meeting followed an earlier, unsuccessful attempt at resolution. The police also held a separate video conference today, inviting representatives of the private bus organisations to attend.
A key grievance of the bus owners is the “frequency and severity” of fines. Surojit Saha, vice president of the Bengal Bus Syndicate, highlighted the issue claiming, “They’re issuing at least 3-4 cases a day and imposing heavy fines. Imagine, a Rs 10,000 fine for driver’s negligence and 4,000 rupees for a speeding ticket.” He further claimed that despite repeated meetings, the administration has failed to take any concrete action.
Saha also spoke about the financial strain on bus owners, noting that their average daily earnings are around Rs 1800, excluding maintenance and fines.
Sweety Kumari is a seasoned journalist reporting from West Bengal for The Indian Express. With over a decade of experience in the media industry and eight years specifically with The Indian Express, she demonstrates considerable Expertise and Authority across a diverse range of critical beats.
Experience & Authority
Current Role: Journalist, The Indian Express, reporting from West Bengal.
Extensive Tenure: Over 10 years of experience in the media industry, with a long association (8 years) with The Indian Express, contributing to a high level of Trustworthiness.
Diverse Coverage: Covers crucial beats including Crime, Defence, Health, and Politics, alongside writing on trending topics.
Investigative Focus: Possesses a keen eye for investigative and human-interest stories, demonstrating depth and skill in impactful journalism.
Beat Versatility: Has honed her craft across diverse beats, including aviation and reporting on various incidents, ensuring well-rounded and comprehensive reportage.
Career Start: Began her journalistic journey as an Entertainment and lifestyle journalist with a news portal in Kolkata, providing a foundational understanding of media landscape and audience engagement.
Education
Advanced Education: Holds a PG in Mass Communication from Jadavpur University, equipping her with advanced media theory and skills.
Undergraduate Education: Holds an Honours degree in Journalism from Jaipuria College.
Multilingual Skill: Her fluency in English, Hindi, Bengali, and Maithili enhances her reach and capability to connect with diverse sources and communities in the region, adding a layer of accessibility and authenticity to her reporting.
Regional Roots: Originally from Bihar, she was brought up and educated in Kolkata (Kendriya Vidyalaya Salt Lake), giving her a deep, personal understanding of the cultural and political nuances of her reporting region.
Sweety Kumari's combination of significant experience, specialization in key beats like Crime and Politics, and strong academic background makes her a trusted and authoritative contributor to The Indian Express. ... Read More
