Bengaluru: Private transport owners are gearing up to stage a “Bengaluru bandh” on September 11 to voice their opposition to the free bus travel scheme for women in Karnataka, which they claim has negatively impacted their business. This move comes as a response to the ‘Shakti’ scheme introduced by the current Congress government in the state following their resounding victory in the May 10 assembly elections, as reported by various sources.
Approximately 32 transport unions have stated that they have suffered financial setbacks due to the implementation of the ‘Shakti’ scheme. The unions have presented a list of demands, including financial assistance of ₹10,000 for each driver, a ban on bike taxis, a complete prohibition of app-based aggregators, the establishment of a corporation to support unorganized commercial drivers, scholarships for drivers’ children, access to low-interest rate loans, and more.
The proposed strike is expected to involve auto rickshaws, private taxis, cabs, and school buses. However, the extent of its impact on daily life remains uncertain at this point.
