Patna Faces Two-Day Transport Disruption as Auto, E-rickshaw Drivers Announce Strike

Patna: Public transport in Patna is set to come to a standstill on Tuesday and Wednesday, as auto-rickshaw and e-rickshaw drivers begin a two-day strike in protest against recent traffic regulations introduced in the city.

The joint strike, announced by all major auto unions in Patna, aims to pressure the district administration into addressing the drivers’ concerns. In a joint statement, union leaders criticised the administration’s inaction and warned that the strike could be extended indefinitely if their demands are not met.

“We have tried to raise our issues, but the administration continues to ignore them. This two-day strike is a warning—if nothing changes, we will be forced to go on an indefinite strike,” said a representative of the auto drivers’ union.

The disruption is likely to cause significant inconvenience to commuters across the city, with increased demand expected to overwhelm app-based cab services such as Ola and Uber. Many daily passengers, including office-goers and students, may be forced to walk or seek alternative transport.

The strike coincides with a statewide bandh called by opposition parties on July 9, potentially compounding the disruption. Previous bandhs have seen reduced vehicle movement until afternoon hours, and with autos and e-rickshaws already off the roads, public mobility in Patna could be severely hampered.