Despite High Court stay, employees proceeded with an indefinite strike from 6 am on August 5. bus services shut down across major cities—Bengaluru, Mysuru, Hubballi, Dharwad, Kalaburagi.
Unions demand clearance of 38 months’ salary arrears (~₹1,785 cr) and a 25% wage hike effective from Jan 2024. Govt offered just 14 months' dues.
Riders scrambled for private buses, cabs and autos. Many complained of fare hikes, especially in Bengaluru. Some rural routes saw trainee drivers.
Govt issued work‑from‑home advisory, roped in private operators to ease mobility. Officials warned of “no work, no pay” action.
Talks continue between unions and govt. With no resolution yet, uncertainty looms over how long commuters will suffer. Stay tuned.