Private Bus Operators in Rajasthan Launch Statewide Strike

Thousands of private bus operators across Rajasthan have initiated a statewide strike on Saturday, 24 January 2026, in protest against the stringent enforcement of bus body code norms and heavy fines imposed by the state transport department.

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The action has led to significant disruption of private bus services across the state, affecting commuter travel and raising concerns about passenger mobility on key routes.

Private bus operators, organised mainly under the Bus Operator Society Rajasthan and other associations, walked off the job in response to what they describe as unjustified fines and punitive enforcement even in cases where buses comply with all regulatory requirements and documentation.

Operators report that buses with valid permits and online compliance receipts are being penalised during physical inspections, prompting widespread resentment within the sector.

The strike, declared at dawn, has seen sleeper and stage-carriage buses remain off the roads, particularly along major intercity routes and rural corridors.

Jaipur, Ajmer, Bhilwara, and Churu are among the districts where services have been severely impacted, forcing daily travellers to seek alternatives or wait longer at crowded public transport hubs.

Leaders of the bus operator associations said the state government’s recent enforcement drive intensified after a fatal Jaisalmer bus accident in late 2025 has burdened operators with excessive fines and compliance pressures.

Despite agreements reached earlier with authorities to make safety-related modifications, including:

• Installation of additional emergency exits,
• Fire safety systems,
• Window-breaking hammers, and
• Removal of roof luggage carriers,

operators claim fines still continue even after implementing agreed measures.

“We have submitted all documents online and received official receipts, yet during field checks we are being slapped with hefty challans and penalties.

This is unjust and unsustainable,” said Kailash Sharma, Vice-President of the Private Bus Operator Association.

In a formal letter to the state government, operators outlined issues ranging from bus body code compliance and registration type approvals to bus stand halting points and parking facilities problems they say have persisted without adequate resolution.

The strike has notably disrupted travel for thousands of passengers who depend on private buses for medium and long-distance commutes.

With many services halted, Crowds have surged at Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) depots and roadways bus stands, while travellers face delays or are forced to seek alternative transport such as shared autos, taxis, or ride-hail services.

For rural commuters, especially those travelling between towns and remote villages, the strike has left many stranded at bus stands with limited options, adding pressure on local traffic and public transport services.

The Rajasthan transport department has defended its enforcement actions, stating that compliance with road safety standards including statutory body code and vehicle specifications is critical to protecting passengers.

Officials have reiterated that regulatory checks are conducted in accordance with national road safety norms and aim to prevent accidents stemming from equipment failures or safety oversights.

However, the current crisis highlights the broader challenge of balancing enforcement with industry viability particularly in a state where private bus operators provide essential connectivity across rural and urban segments.