Karnataka students demand reliable bus service, block highway in protest

Students in Karnataka's Hattikuni village blocked a state highway, accusing buses of routinely skipping their stops and leaving them stranded for hours. With school and college attendance affected, villagers joined the protest and warned of stronger agitation unless regular bus services are ensured.

In Short

• Students said buses often arrived late or passed without halting
• Long morning waits were disrupting attendance at schools and colleges
• Villagers joined the protest and backed demands for dependable services

Frustrated by the persistent lack of reliable public transportation, students in Hattikuni village of Karnataka's Yadgir district staged a protest by blocking a state highway on Thursday.

The demonstration brought traffic to a standstill as students voiced their anger over buses allegedly failing to stop at their designated stops, leaving them stranded for hours every morning.

The protesting students said the irregular bus service has become a daily ordeal, severely affecting their education. According to them, buses either do not arrive on time or pass without stopping, making it difficult for students to reach schools and colleges punctually.

Many said they have repeatedly raised the issue with the authorities, but no lasting solution has been implemented.

VILLAGERS JOIN DEMONSTRATION

The protest gained support from local villagers, who joined the students in demanding better transport facilities. Residents confronted officials from the transport department, urging them to introduce regular bus services and ensure that buses stop for passengers in Hattikuni village.

They argued that dependable public transport is essential for students and daily commuters alike.

PROTESTERS ISSUE WARNING

The demonstrators warned that if the authorities fail to address their demands immediately, they will intensify their agitation in the coming days. They insisted that the transport department must provide regular bus connectivity and take concrete steps to prevent buses from bypassing the village.

The highway blockade highlights the growing frustration among students and residents over inadequate public transport in rural areas. With education being directly affected, the protesters have made it clear that they will continue their fight until reliable bus services are restored.

The ball is now in the authorities' court to respond swiftly and ensure that students are no longer forced to choose between waiting endlessly for a bus and missing valuable classroom time.

- Ends