Petro diesel truckers strike sends jitters down spine of dealers, motorists

Hyderabad: The petro diesel truckers called for a strike which had an impact on the general public. After the news broke out, the general public rushed to the petrol pumps to fill the tanks fearing future shortage. Heavy rush was witnessed at all the petrol and diesel pumps in the city. Truckers transporting petrol and diesel stalled transportation of fuel tankers from Tuesday midnight.

There are 5,80,000 and above goods vehicles in Telangana of which 1,80,000 are heavy goods vehicles. The associations of truckers of oil tankers mentioned that they want the central government to withdraw the new bill on hit-and-run cases, punishment for which included 10 years of imprisonment and Rs 7 lakh fine.

Sensing that they would soon run out of stock, some petrol refilling stations imposed restriction on the number of litres purchased by every motorist.

Alluri Ravi Shankar, All India General secretary of Bharatiya Private Transport Mazdoor Maha Sangh, says: “We called for the strike of all oil tankers throughout India, starting zero zero hours on Tuesday. We have requested other private transport organisations also to support us and take part in the total strike on Wednesday."

The government should invite truckers' association for talks and withdraw the bill which was introduced in the Parliament, he said.

Manchireddy Rajendar Reddy, President Telangana Lorry Owners Association, said, “At times, the truckers are beaten to death by mob for being the cause of mishap. The punishment and fine to be imposed on truckers in case of hit-and-run cases is not justifiable."

Marri Amarender Reddy, President, Telangana Petrol Dealers' Association, said, “Talks are on with the oil tank truckers. There are three corporations of which two have agreed to call off the strike."