Sonipat: The effect of the three-day transporters’ strike across the Delhi National Capital Region (NCR) became more visible on Friday, with thousands of trucks remaining off the roads in Sonipat and adjoining districts, severely disrupting goods transportation and supply chains.The agitation against the implementation of environment compensation charges (ECC) and restrictions on BS-4 vehicles in the NCR brought the freight movement to a near standstill. Transport hubs in Sonipat wore a deserted look as parked trucks lined major loading points and logistics corridors.Transport operators alleged that the newly enforced regulations pushed an already struggling sector deeper into financial distress. According to union representatives, the ban on BS-4 commercial vehicles adversely impacted thousands of truck owners, many of whom are still dependent on older fleets for their livelihood.“We are already battling rising diesel prices, taxes, loan repayments and operational costs. The ECC and BS-4 restrictions have made survival even more difficult for small transporters,” said a member of the protesting unions.The strike has hit the transportation of essential commodities, industrial raw materials, and construction supplies. Several transport companies reportedly suspended bookings temporarily, raising concerns among traders and manufacturers over delays in deliveries.Industrial units dependent on timely raw material supply are also beginning to feel the pressure. Market associations feared that if the strike prolonged, it could lead to supply shortages and eventually impact the prices of goods in local markets.Amit Kataria, the president of the Bhai Chara Truck Association in Sonipat, which has extended support to the agitation, said the protest would continue until the govt responds positively to the transporters’ demands.He said the ongoing strike from May 21 to May 23 was symbolic in nature and warned that the movement could intensify if no resolution was reached.Transport unions maintained that the sudden implementation of policies without adequate transition time had endangered the livelihood of thousands of drivers and truck owners across the NCR belt.The authorities concerned stated that they were closely monitoring the situation, and efforts were underway to initiate dialogue between govt officials and transport bodies to restore normal freight operations at the earliest.MSID:: 131264113 413 |
