As per reports, the following are the latest updates regarding the drivers’ strike that has impacted online cab services such as OIa, Uber and Rapid across Bhubaneswar, as on Tuesday (18 August):

• As online cab services remained suspended for the second consecutive day on Tuesday (18 August), the Comprehensive Region Urban Transport (CRUT) had launched the Ama Bus Shuttle Service to ease commuter troubles across the capital city.
• The service connects Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar Railway Station, and Baramunda (BSABT) Bus Stand, ensuring passengers can travel conveniently despite the ongoing strike.
• The strike has reportedly led to sharp surge in offline cab fares with rates increasing from INR 100 to INR 300. Many travellers arriving at the airport and railway station were allegedly left stranded, prompting CRUT to activate its shuttle network for uninterrupted connectivity.
• Moreover, the Commissionerate Police have also deployed additional platoons at key transit points to manage crowds and ensure safety.
• The Commissionerate Police intervened to maintain law and order and requested PCR vans to drop some passengers from the airport to hospital in case of medical emergency. It also requested the passengers to take the help of PCR vehicles stationed at the airport for assistance.
• Importantly, Smart City Online Auto Association leader Dinabandhu Nayak stated that they will intensify their agitation in case there is no decision from the government regarding their demands including addressing increased fuel prices.
• Currently, there is no indication for how long the drivers’ strike might continue.