India: Bus strike in Rajasthan July 25-26

Event

A coalition of transport employees' unions began a two-day strike on Wednesday, July 25, in Rajasthan state. After three failed meetings with Rajasthan Roadways management, the unions launched a strike to demand higher pay, new buses, and the filling of vacant positions. The strike is expected to cause significant traffic disruptions as more than 4500 buses will be out of service through July 26. Over 1,000,000 daily riders of public buses in Rajasthan state are reportedly resorting to alternative transportation, such as trains or private buses, for the duration of the strike; associated congestion on these alternate means of transport are to be expected. The unions warned on July 25 that the strike could be extended if their members' demands were not satisfied.

Advice

Individuals in Rajasthan are advised to monitor the situation, allow additional time to travel during the strike, and avoid any associated street protests as a precaution.