Odisha Government Acts Swiftly to Ensure Supply of Essentials Amid Drivers’ Strike

Bhubaneswar, July 10 – As the indefinite strike called by the Odisha Drivers’ Federation entered its third consecutive day, the Odisha Government has stepped up measures to ensure the smooth and uninterrupted supply of essential commodities, particularly fuel, across the state.

The Commerce and Transport Department, in coordination with various state agencies, is working around the clock to keep the supply chain operational, especially focusing on the availability of petroleum products. A high-level review meeting, chaired by Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena, was held on Tuesday to assess the on-ground situation and chart a coordinated response.

Top officials including the Additional Chief Secretary (Home), Director General of Police, Principal Secretaries of Commerce & Transport and Food Supplies & Consumer Welfare, Transport Commissioner, and representatives from Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) and police were present at the meeting.

Minister Jena reiterated the government’s commitment to dialogue and appealed to striking drivers to call off their protest in the public interest, emphasizing the larger economic implications of the disruption. He also assured that the government is open to discussions with the drivers’ association.

A dedicated task force has been set up, comprising officials from the Transport Department, police, district administrations, and OMCs, to monitor the situation 24/7. This task force is tasked with resolving logistical issues promptly and ensuring the movement of petroleum and other critical goods.

To facilitate fuel supply, district administrations and police units have been instructed to provide security escorts and logistical support to fuel tankers and goods carriers. Officials have confirmed that there is no fuel shortage in the state, and daily tanker movement remains close to the usual 600 to meet the demand.

Citizens have been urged to avoid panic buying and not fall prey to misinformation. “There is sufficient fuel stock at all depots and retail outlets. Delivery is continuing without disruption,” said Minister Jena, adding that the situation is being closely monitored at the highest levels of government.

Meanwhile, the strike has paralysed transport services across Odisha, with thousands of private buses off the roads. Commuters faced major inconvenience, with only a limited number of OSRTC and Ama Bus services operational.

The Odisha Drivers’ Federation has put forth a seven-point charter of demands, including:

• Implementation of a Driver Welfare Scheme
• Pension for drivers above 60 years of age
• Accident insurance and compensation
• Withdrawal of frequent police checks
• Construction of restrooms, parking areas, and rest sheds every 100 km along state highways

While the government continues its efforts to minimize public hardship, a resolution to the deadlock remains uncertain.