On the call of indefinite nationwide strike by the All India Motor Transporter Corporation (AIMTC), the transport system in the State has been adversely affected since October 1. The truckers being on strike has created a shortage of stocks of various items and prices of food items, garments, utensils, new vehicles, sports items and other commodities have been increased by traders in various markets of the state. Observers opined that festive season is approaching nearer and if the truckers’ strike continues for some more days, the prices of various commodities might rise to a considerably high level which may cause disturbance among consumers and in the markets. Moreover, the businessmen would face at a considerable loss in business during the festive season if the strike continues for long.
According to Dehradun Transport Operator Association General Secretary Ashok Grover, around 20, 000 trucks are standing outside the state, in Uttar Pradesh and other parts of the country. The trucks transporting essential items like petrol, diesel, milk, vegetables and others have been kept out of protest. All the Uttarakhand based transport operator unions are also partricipating in the strike following the call of AIMTC for the last four days. The stir could continue until demands are met, he warned.
Other association members said that the truck operators are facing financial loss and additional burden in the form of salaries for drivers, contractors and transport tax.
A member of Uttaranchal Truck Owner Federation said that they had talked with the office bearers of AIMTC and they had made clear that unless government discontinues toll barricade system and withdraws amendments in Motor Vehicle Act section 1988 and labour law, the strike would continue across the country in support of these demands. According to him in Dehradun, around 200 trucks have remained at a standstill at Transport Nagar.
However, trucks carrying essential items like milk, fuel and vegetables have been kept out of the strike.