Ludhiana, June 11 -- After two days of disruption that left commuters struggling in scorching weather, the statewide strike by contractual employees of Punjab Roadways and PUNBUS was withdrawn on Wednesday evening following a breakthrough in talks with the Punjab government.

Before the agitation was called off, nearly 60% of Punjab Roadways and PUNBUS services remained affected, forcing passengers to endure long waits, overcrowded buses and expensive private transport options.

The strike, called by the Punjab Roadways, PUNBUS and PRTC Contract Workers Union, had raised worries of a complete shutdown of government bus services after PRTC employees were expected to join the agitation.

However, the proposed expansion of the strike was put...