Tanker operators begin indefinite strike

Kolkata, Jan 25(UNI) Fuelling apprehension of a petroleum shortage, tanker operators in West Bengal today started an indefinite strike to press for various demands, including revised rates by the PSU oil companies.

About 2,000 oil tankers did not roll out from the Buj Buj and Maurigram terminals disrupting supply of petroleum.

West Bengal Tankers Association President Ajit Das said the strike would continue till the demands were met. ''It is impossible for us to operate tankers with the amount of payment being given by the state-owned petroleum companies.

Meanwhile, Petroeum Dealers' Association President Tushar Kanti Sen said the state was under the threat of petroleum crunch if the strike continued.

''The stock of petroleum and diesel that the pumps now have will ensure supply up to January 26. If the strike continues, it would not be possible to maintain normal supply in Kolkata and the adjoining districts,'' he said.

Yesterday, operators of private transport, including bus, mini bus and taxis, called off their proposed token strike today following talks with Transport Minister Subhash Chakraborty. They had decided to go on a strike in protest against abnormal hike in insurance premium. However, the tanker operators refused to budge and went ahead with their strike.

UNI