NE truckers threaten to go on strike

Shillong, Dec 7 (UNI) The Northeast Commercial Truck Owners and Operators' Association today threatened to go on a strike if the Meghalaya government failed to stop the alleged illegal toll collection.

The association's general secretary alleged that illegal toll collection from coal-laden trucks proceeding to Assam along National Highway 40 was prevalent and demanded redressal of their grievances within 15 days with effect from December 7.

He welcomed the decision of the East Khasi Hills district administration to restrict loads of coal carried by trucks to 15 tonnes each per trip but stated that too many toll gates in the state had affected the revenue and income earned by coal exporters. At least 200 coal-laden trucks plied from Shahlang to Beltola every day and illegal tax, ranging from Rs 12,000 to Rs 15,000, was being collected from each truck, the general secretary alleged.

UNI