Truckers’ strike against price rise begins; movement of goods across Karnataka likely to be hit

The trucks parked near the Kanterava stadium in Bengaluru. | Photo credit: file photo

Truck operators in Karnataka launched an indefinite strike after midnight on Monday, demanding a reversal of the recent increase in diesel prices and a reduction in toll charges. The protest is expected, directed by the Federation of Association of Owners and agents of the state of Karnataka (FKSLOA), to put the movement of goods throughout the state about detention.

The president of FKSLOA, GR Shanmugappa, declared that around six Lakh trucks have joined the protest. “We are firm in our stand. The strike will continue until the government reverses the increase in the price of diesel,” he said.

Except for milk supply vehicles, all other goods carriers, including those that transport fuel, LPG, construction material and essential elements, will remain out of roads. Mr. Shanmugappa added that some 60 transport associations of 24 states have promised their support for the protests and trucks of these states will not enter the agitation of Karnataka.

The strike occurs in response to the Karnataka government decision to increase the Diesel Sales Tax from 18.44% to 21.17%, from April 1. This increase has caused diesel prices to increase by 2.05 per liter, increasing operational costs for transporters. “The truckers are already loaded with high expenses. This walk is unacceptable,” Shanmugappa said.

Key demands

Among the key demands of the truckers are the complete elimination of the collection of tolls within the State, the dismantling of the RTO control stalls on the state borders and the withdrawal of the Government Guide of the Union that requires a rate of ₹ 15000 to renew the physical aptitude of a vehicle.

Taxi services to continue

Meanwhile, it is unlikely that regular taxi services in Bangalore are affected. The president of the Ola and Uber drivers association, Tanveer Pasha, said that taxi drivers would only extend moral support to the strike. “Taxi operations will continue as usual on Tuesday,” he confirmed.