“Bengaluru Bandh Looms as Private Transporters Protest Free Bus Travel Scheme”
Private transport operators in Karnataka are set to stage a “Bengaluru bandh” on September 11 as a sign of protest against the state’s free bus travel program for women. This initiative, known as ‘Shakti,’ has allegedly caused financial losses for these transport owners.
Reports indicate that 32 transport unions are affected by the scheme, which was introduced by the current Congress government following their significant victory in the May 10 assembly elections.
Union members are making several demands, including financial assistance of ₹10,000 per driver, a ban on bike taxis, a complete prohibition of app-based ride-hailing services, the establishment of a corporation to support unorganized commercial drivers, scholarships for the children of drivers, access to low-interest loans, and more.
