Thousands of daily commuters in Amritsar faced severe transportation challenges as Punjab Roadways Transport Corporation (PRTC) buses suddenly went off the roads due to a union strike. The unexpected disruption left passengers stranded at bus stands and forced them to seek alternative, often more expensive, modes of transportation.
Widespread Commuter Suffering Across Amritsar
The bus strike created chaos at major bus stands throughout Amritsar, particularly at the Inter-State Bus Terminus (ISBT) where large crowds of frustrated passengers gathered. Many commuters, unaware of the strike, arrived at bus stands only to find no buses operating on their regular routes. The situation became increasingly tense as the day progressed and no resolution appeared in sight.
Regular passengers who depend on PRTC buses for their daily commute to work, educational institutions, and other essential travel found themselves in a difficult position. Long-distance travelers heading to destinations across Punjab and neighboring states were especially affected, with many forced to cancel or postpone their journeys entirely.
Alternative Transport Options Overwhelmed
With PRTC buses off the roads, the limited number of private buses and other transportation options quickly became overwhelmed. Auto-rickshaws and taxi services witnessed a sudden surge in demand, leading to inflated fares that many regular commuters could not afford. Shared auto-rickshaws became excessively crowded, compromising passenger safety and comfort.
The situation highlighted the critical dependence of Amritsar residents on PRTC bus services for affordable and reliable transportation. Many commuters expressed frustration at the lack of prior notice about the strike, which would have allowed them to make alternative arrangements. Elderly passengers and those with physical challenges faced particular hardship in finding suitable transportation options.
Growing Calls for Immediate Resolution
As the transportation crisis deepened throughout Amritsar, affected commuters began demanding immediate intervention from transportation authorities and government officials. Many questioned why alternative arrangements weren't made to minimize public inconvenience during the strike period.
The disruption underscored the essential role of PRTC buses in Amritsar's public transportation ecosystem and the vulnerability of commuters when such services are suddenly unavailable. Regular passengers hope for a swift resolution to the union's demands so that normal bus services can resume, restoring affordable and accessible transportation for all residents of Amritsar.
The incident has sparked broader discussions about the need for contingency plans to handle such transportation disruptions in the future, ensuring that commuters are not left stranded without viable alternatives for their essential travel needs.
