Karnataka lorry strike called off after government assures action on truckers’ demands

The truckers’ strike, which began at midnight on April 15, had seen nearly six lakh trucks parked across the State, severely affecting the movement of essential and non-essential commodities.
| Photo Credit: SUDHAKARA JAIN

After almost three days of disruption to goods transportation across Karnataka, the Federation of Karnataka State Lorry Owners and Agents’ Association (FKSLOA) has called off its indefinite strike following a third round of talks with Karnataka Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy on Thursday.

The strike, which began at midnight on April 15, had seen nearly six lakh trucks parked across the State, severely affecting the movement of essential and non-essential commodities. Truckers had been demanding a rollback of the recent diesel price hike and a reduction in toll charges, among other issues.

Transport Minister’s assurance

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy said that the government has assured the association that it will take necessary steps to address their concerns. “The association has submitted various key demands. One of their requests was to remove border check-posts. I have directed officials to conduct an on-ground inspection and submit a report. Based on that, appropriate action will be taken,” Mr. Reddy said.

Another demand raised by the association was related to the restriction on truck entry into city limits during peak hours. “We will consult with the police and review this issue to find a balanced solution,” Mr. Reddy added.

On complaints regarding delays and fixing a time in issuing fitness certificates for vehicles, the minister said that officials have been directed to issue them between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. to avoid traffic congestion and delays for truckers.

Illegal tractors

The association also brought up the issue of illegal tractors operating in city areas under the guise of agricultural activity while actually engaging in commercial transport. “They have been dumping debris illegally in the city. We will initiate strict action against such vehicles,” Mr. Reddy assured.

The minister further announced that the process for payment of penalties will be moved online to make it easier for truck owners. Responding to the demand for a 50% waiver on penalties pending for over a decade, he said, “This falls under the purview of the Finance Department. I will discuss it with the Chief Minister and take necessary steps.”

Regarding the diesel price hike and toll charges, Mr. Reddy stated that he had already brought the matter to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s attention and would do so again. “Some demands like toll rates, vehicle scrapping policy fall under the Union Government. I will be writing to Nitin Gadkari, Minister for Road Transport & Highways, soon,” he added.

Truckers resume operations Statewide

Following the government’s assurances, FKSLOA president G.R. Shanmugappa said the strike would be withdrawn immediately. “Most of our demands have been positively considered by the government. Mr. Reddy has promised to take our concerns to both the Chief Minister and the Union Government. Hence, we are calling off the strike. Truck and goods vehicle operations will resume across the State from today,” he said.

Earlier, on Tuesday evening, despite a high-level meeting with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, the truckers had refused to end their agitation. The Chief Minister’s Office had acknowledged their concerns but justified the ₹2 increase in diesel cess, introduced in the State Budget. “Even after the hike, diesel prices in Karnataka remain lower than in neighbouring states,” the CMO had stated.