Transporters’ strike continues for second day across Delhi-NCR against ECC hike, fuel price rise

NEW DELHI: Transporters and taxi unions continued their strike across Delhi-NCR on Friday for the second consecutive day in protest against the increase in environment compensation cess (ECC) on commercial vehicles and rising fuel prices.The three-day strike was called by transport bodies, including the All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC) and Chalak Shakti Union, representing truckers, private bus operators, taxi drivers and maxi-cab operators. However, the impact of the protest remained limited in most parts of the national capital, with autos and taxis continuing to operate normally on Thursday.AIMTC national president Harish Sabharwal said the protest was primarily aimed at opposing the ECC imposed on commercial vehicles. He warned that higher taxes on vehicles transporting essential commodities would eventually increase transportation costs and lead to a rise in consumer prices.“We have deliberately kept autos, taxis and buses out of this symbolic strike so that the public is not inconvenienced,” Sabharwal said.Meanwhile, the Chalak Shakti Union, in a letter submitted earlier this week to the Delhi Lieutenant Governor, Chief Minister, Transport Minister and Police Commissioner, highlighted the financial difficulties being faced by drivers due to rising operational costs.The union stated that taxi fares in Delhi-NCR have remained unchanged for nearly 15 years despite a steep increase in fuel prices and other expenses. It said the rising cost of CNG, petrol and diesel, along with higher spending on vehicle maintenance, permits, insurance, fitness certificates and other requirements, had pushed drivers under severe financial stress.Transport unions have demanded a rollback of the ECC and a revision of taxi fares, warning that continued financial pressure could affect the livelihood of thousands of drivers across the region.(With agency inputs)