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Transporters begin nationwide stir

Truck operators began their indefinite strike today demanding a roll back in the price of diesel.

In Bombay, several local transport associations led by Maharashtra Rajya Truck Tempo Tanker Bus Vahatuk Mahasangh president Mohinder Ghura said that a faction of the transporters have decided to keep away from the strike. These include the Bombay Suburban Water Transporters Association, Bombay Bus Owners Association and the Vashi-based Retail Transport Owners Association.

The Mumbai Taxi-Men's Union has decided against joining the strike at present. Presently negotiating with the road transport office to hike the minimum fare to Rs 12 from the present Rs 11, they too may join the strike if negotiations end in a deadlock.

Private bus operators including those plying inter-state buses have already increased their fares by 15 to 20 per cent.

If the strike is prolonged the supply of essential commodities in Bombay and the suburbs might be affected leading to a further hike in their prices.

Several business bodies like the Indian Merchant Chambers, Bombay Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Federation of Import-Export Organisation have urged the Union government to sort out the issue in the interest of the common man.

The Centre has called upon the states to invoke the Essential Services Maintenance Act.

UNI

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