It is four days now when no private bus for Ranchi via Panki Balumath is plying. It is all for insecurity and demand for money by unidentified people. The bus owners have taken off their buses from this route, said sources. The non-plying of buses has caused untold hardships to the people bound for Balumath and Ranchi. The IPS probationer and officer in-charge of the Panki Police Station Parshant has confirmed this stoppage of buses on Panki Balumath road.
The IPS probationer said it all started with the beating of a bus agent last week by some unidentified people on this route. The bus agent was thrashed for money and warned not to ply till money is paid said sources. The police officer added further "We have assured the bus owners, drivers, agents, apprentices of all security and safety'. There would be armed escort for the buses. Further to foil any more sinister move, the police are ready to deploy MMP (minimum mine proof vehicle) at this rout, added Parshant. There could be convoy system too here on this road for more sense of security.
On being queried if naxal outfits are behind this, the IPS probationer said apparently it looks the work of some hardened criminals who want to earn fast bucks. However, sources said Panki Balumath route has been a favourite hunting ground of the naxalites and the road robbers. Two places Taal and Karimati are most vulnerable here. There is a place resembling 'S' on this route where extremists and criminals strike at all ease. The IPS probationer expressing confidence said ' The thaw is to end sooner. Office bearers of Palamu transport association have met me here. I have assured them to restore the bus services sooner'.
