KOCHI: The interstate bus strike called by private bus owners passed its second day. The bus owners are adamant in their stand and want the govt to their demands and the govt is trying to face it at any cost. Due to the strike, the number of buses to Bengaluru and Mysore have decreased significantly which makes the life of passengers difficult. KSRTC is trying to counter it with extra interstate services from Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and Kozhikode to Bengaluru and Mysore.

The strike was started citing the imposition of unnecessary fines in the name of Operation Night Riders. The Bus Owners’ Association alleges that the MVD is trying to destroy the transport industry in the name of unnecessary problems. There were about 700 interstate services per day. Due to the strike, buses are operating from other states to Kerala.

Meanwhile, the govt has decided to delay the cancelling of Kallada Bus’ permit for assault against passengers. A meeting of Road Traffic Authority convened by the Thrissur collector will decide on this. The bus owner Suresh did not make it to the meeting. Ernakulam RTO on his letter to Irinjalakuda joint RTO suggested the suspension of Kallada Bus’ permit. However, the joint RTO left the decision to the RTA Board.