Despite the statewide transport strike called by the Joint Action Committee of Karnataka’s transport unions, public transport services in Dakshina Kannada district remained largely unaffected.
Officials confirmed that all employees of the KSRTC’s Mangaluru and Puttur divisions reported to duty on Tuesday, ensuring uninterrupted services across all routes. Rajesh Shetty, Senior Divisional Controller of the KSRTC Mangaluru division, told TOI that scheduled buses, including those on long-distance routes to Bengaluru and Mysuru, ran as planned.
“For the past few days, we’ve been engaging with staff, urging them not to inconvenience the public. Our efforts succeeded as all staff supported the government’s stand and showed up for work,” Shetty said.
He added that strategic planning helped maintain normal operations. Additionally, the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA), which remains in effect until December, mandates that employees remain on duty.
While early morning services to Dharmasthala faced brief disruptions, operations resumed quickly. Puttur division officials also confirmed that all buses ran as per schedule.
The impact of the strike was minimal in Dakshina Kannada, in part due to the large number of private buses operating in the district. These private services further cushioned commuters from potential inconvenience.
Overall, cooperation between authorities and staff ensured smooth public transport despite the protest call.