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INDIA-TRUCKER-STRIKE
Truckers begin nationwide indefinite strike in India
NEW DELHI, July 20, 2018 (BSS/XINHUA) – Indian truckers began a nationwide
indefinite strike on Friday, demanding reduction of diesel and toll prices.
The strike was called by the All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC).
Truck unions claim over 9.3 million trucks are off the roads in support of
the strike.
“Our demands include removal of daily pricing mechanism for diesel, toll
collection and reduction in insurance premium,” a member of AIMTC said. “We
want the government to implement a toll barrier-free India to make
transportation hassle-free on main roads.”
Reports said the government’s efforts to end the strike could not
fructify.
“Our representatives held meeting with Indian Road Transport Minister
Nitin Gadkari but that turned out inconclusive,” the member said. “Let’s see
what government wants.”
Analysts says the strike will incur a daily loss of over 580 million U.S.
dollars to the truckers.
The strike is likely to hit India’s transportation of essential supplies.
BSS/XINHUA/GMR/1405 hrs