MP transporters back nationwide strike, halt Delhi-bound loading for 3 days

Times News Network

Indore: Transporters in Madhya Pradesh have extended support to the three-day nationwide ‘chakka jam’ called by All India Motor Transport Congress from May 21–23, asking operators to stop loading and movement of vehicles headed to Delhi-NCR amid protests over higher green taxes, restrictions on older vehicles and mounting pressure on the transport business.

Transporters said that the strike could disrupt movement of around 60–70 vehicles operating daily between Madhya Pradesh and Delhi-NCR. Supplies of grocery items, dry fruits, spices, auto parts, garments, fruits, cutlery, crockery, utensils, electronic products, toys and hardware goods are likely to be affected if loading and movement remain suspended during the protest period.

Transport associations in Madhya Pradesh said that transporters, vehicle owners and drivers across the state would support the protest and avoid dispatching cargo towards Delhi-NCR during the strike period. Industry representatives said that operators have been asked not to load consignments and avoid entry of commercial vehicles into Delhi-NCR during the three-day protest.

“Transporters are already battling rising diesel prices, tyre costs and weak cargo movement. The business is under severe pressure and operators across Madhya Pradesh are extending support to the movement,” Indore truck operators and transport association president C L Mukati said.

Transporters said that the advisory could impact movement of goods between Madhya Pradesh and Delhi-NCR, particularly consignments linked to consumer goods, industrial products and wholesale trade supplies.

Vijay Kalra, a transporter associated with the movement, said that the industry was facing multiple challenges simultaneously, including cost escalation and slowing business activity. “The protest is aimed at protecting survival of transport business. Transporters are under increasing pressure,” he said.