Tue Jul 08 13:23:59 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
A private bus strike in Thrissur district, Kerala, India, on July 8, 2025, caused significant disruption. The strike, called by the Joint Committee of Bus Owners, demanded timely permit renewals, increased student concession fares, and the withdrawal of mandatory police clearance for bus staff. While most private buses remained off the roads, the impact was lessened by increased KSRTC services and the use of private vehicles. The strike caused traffic congestion and heavy rush on KSRTC buses. Protest marches were held, and some buses that continued operations were blocked by activists, leading to police intervention. Bus owners warn of an indefinite strike from July 22 if their demands aren’t met. A nationwide general strike is scheduled for the following day, further impacting bus services.
**News Article:**
**Thrissur Paralyzed by Private Bus Strike, Commuters Rely on Alternatives**
**Thrissur, India – July 8, 2025** – A private bus strike brought Thrissur district to a near standstill today, with most private buses remaining off the roads. Called by the Joint Committee of Bus Owners, the strike aims to pressure the government to address concerns regarding permit renewals, student fare concessions, and mandatory police clearance for bus staff.
While the strike severely impacted private bus services, the effects were mitigated by increased Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) services and a surge in private vehicle usage. Offices and schools remained open, forcing commuters to rely heavily on alternative transportation.
The absence of private buses led to significant traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. KSRTC buses operated with heavy rush, and the additional services struggled to fully compensate for the shortfall in private transport.
Bus owners, under the banner of the Bus Owners’ Coordination Committee, held a protest march expressing solidarity with the symbolic strike. The Joint Committee has warned of an indefinite strike starting July 22nd if the government fails to address their demands, especially regarding student fare revisions.
Compounding the transport woes, a nationwide general strike organized by trade unions is scheduled for Wednesday, which is expected to further disrupt bus services, including those operated by KSRTC.
Despite the widespread strike, Kiran Motors continued operations on select routes, drawing large crowds. Pro-strike activists attempted to block these services, leading to police intervention to prevent clashes. The situation remains tense as commuters brace for further disruptions in the coming days.
First Piper 