Chennai, 14 April (H.S.): Trucks from Tamil Nadu should refrain from entering Karnataka in view of an indefinite strike by truckers in that state starting midnight on Monday, Federation of Tamil Nadu Lorry Owners’ Association (FTNLOA) president C Dhanraj said.

The Karnataka Lorry Owners and Booking Agents Association has called for the strike to press for their demands, including reversing the recent sales tax hike in Karnataka, eliminating toll fees, dismantling of RTO checkposts in border areas and rescinding the Union govt’s requirement of Rs 15,000 for fitness certificate renewals. They are also pushing for relaxation of ‘no entry’ restrictions in Bengaluru.

The strike, centered in Bengaluru and other parts of Karnataka, protests rising operational costs, including fuel prices and toll fees, severely impacting goods transportation. Over 2,000 trucks from Tamil Nadu, carrying essential commodities like vegetables, cement, and industrial goods, are stranded at border points such as Hosur and Attibele.

The Tamil Nadu association, in solidarity, has advised its members to avoid entering Karnataka until the strike concludes to prevent delays and ensure driver safety. Talks between Karnataka truckers and state authorities, held on April 13 at 3:00 PM in Bengaluru, remain inconclusive, with further negotiations scheduled for April 15 at 11:00 AM.

The disruption has raised concerns about potential shortages and price hikes in both states if unresolved soon.

—————

Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary