HYDERABAD: More than 2.5 lakh goods vehicles across the state were off the roads as part of an indefinite strike from 6am on Friday. A nation-wide strike call had been given by the All-India Motor Transport Congress (
AIMTC
) in protest of the hike in fuel prices, among other demands.
Among the demands of truckers is the implementation of an 18% GST slab on diesel and uniform pricing of fuel in the national and quarterly revision, rationalization of toll plazas across the country, reduction in third party
insurance
premium and ‘abolition of TDS’, said members of
Telangana Lorry Owner’s Association.
While the supply of construction and heavy materials as well as a few edibles were affected by the strike, essentials like
milk
and medicine were exempted.
“Each year, the number of toll booths and the rates being charged by these toll booths continues to go up and excessive toll is being collected. While Rs 20 crore was being collected as toll across the country on an average everyday, this year, this figure has gone up to Rs 52 crore. This is why we are demanding that toll plazas across the country be rationalized in addition to implementation of an 18% GST slab on diesel. While we have gone on indefinite strike, the supply of medicines and milk will go on uninterrupted for now. If the state government does not meet out demands, the supply of these essentials will also be affected,” said Bhaskar Reddy, President, Telangana Lorry Owners’ Association.
Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India. Don't miss daily games like Crossword, Sudoku, and Mini Crossword.
Start a Conversation
Post comment