Patna, Auto and e-rickshaw drivers have announced a two-day strike on 8 and 9 July in Patna. Auto and E-Rickshaw Joint Sangharsh Morcha has taken this step against the new traffic rules and policies of the Transport Department. Due to the strike, about 25,000 autos and 15,000 e-rickshaws will be missing from the roads in Patna, due to which passengers may face great inconvenience. Auto Union General Secretary Rajesh Chaudhary has said that the administration has not paid attention to their demands, due to which this strike has become necessary.

The main reason for the strike is the new rules implemented by the Transport Department, which include color-coding system of routes, heavy fines on permits and lack of charging points. The auto union has put forward 10-point demands, including basic facilities at stands, improvement in driving license process and implementation of similar rules for app-based taxis like Ola-Uber. The union has warned that if their demands are not met even after two days of strike, they can also start an indefinite strike.

This strike will affect the daily commuters of Patna, especially office goers, students and those traveling from the railway station or bus stand. The situation may get more complicated due to the announcement of Bihar Bandh by the opposition on July 9. When the bandh comes into effect, there may be a lack of public transport till noon, due to which people may have to depend on foot or private vehicles. Fares may also increase due to increased demand on cab services like Ola-Uber, which will put an additional burden on the pockets of the passengers.

The Patna district administration and transport department have not yet issued any official statement regarding the strike. However, the auto union says that despite repeated memorandums and dharna-demonstrations, their problems have not been resolved. Passengers are advised to use alternative means while planning travel on July 8 and 9 and keep an eye on traffic updates. During the strike, demonstrations are likely in Tata Park and Gardanibagh, which may lead to traffic jams in these areas.