Drivers of Smart City electric buses in the provisional state capital continued a work boycott on Wednesday as unfulfilled demands remained outstanding. Residents have faced difficulties reaching destinations owing to the unavailability of electric buses, resulting in increased reliance on alternative transport. The strike has disrupted scheduled routes and prompted travellers to seek alternatives, extending journey times and contributing to congestion on major corridors. The disruption has affected routine commuting patterns across the city and raised concerns among local commuters.

Smart City Kalyan Samiti secretary Gulshan Kumar stated that there are around 30 electric buses operating in the city, staffed by about 60 drivers. He indicated that all 30 buses were non-operational as the drivers were boycotting their work. The buses form part of the urban transport plan intended to improve connectivity, and the absence of services has placed pressure on other modes of public transport.

Kumar alleged that one driver, who assumed a managerial role and misbehaved with colleagues, imposed his own driving rules and operated buses after consuming alcohol. The matter was raised with the relevant authorities with a request for the removal of that driver. Kumar claimed that, rather than taking action, the authorities backed that individual and instead terminated the employment of several e-bus drivers, including himself. The termination has heightened tensions and prompted the union to press for reinstatement and an inquiry into conduct and disciplinary decisions.

He added that a letter had been sent to the concerned authorities but no remedial action had been taken to date. The work boycott is to continue until the drivers' demands are addressed, according to the union position. Municipal and transport officials have been urged to intervene to restore services and mitigate commuter inconvenience. Local stakeholders have been called on to facilitate dialogue to resolve the dispute and resume normal operations.