Transport operators to go on strike on speed governors

Bangalore, Jan 20 (UNI) Movement of essential commodities is likely to be hit with over 4.5 lakh trucks and goods transport vehicles keeping off the roads in Karnataka from midnight tonight with transport operators protesting the mandatory installation of speed governors.

The decision to go on strike was taken at a meeting of various transport operator associations called by the Federation of Karnataka State Lorry Owners and Agents Associations here yesterday after the State Transport Department had insisted on speed governors in the vehicles from January 18.

The transport associations accused the officials of going back on their promise of an amicable settlement during the negotiations held last week.

Trucks, maxi cabs, all private buses, tempos and tourist taxis would be off the roads.

Federation President G R Shanmugappa told UNI the officials had not kept up their word and the Federation had no other option but to go on strike.

''This statute will affect the industry which is already hard hit by increasing costs. Speed governors is no scientific solution to the increasing accidents which are due to bad infrastructure.

''Such a rule is not there in any other state. Then, why only in Karnataka?'' he asked.

He opined the decision was lop-sided as the officials were not insisting on speed governors for vehicles coming from outside the State.

''Let them make it uniform, even for the vehicles coming from outside Karnataka,'' he demanded.

Transporters from neighbouring states had promised to extend support by not operating their vehicles in Karnataka.

The transporters claimed the manufacturers had fixed an exorbitant amount of Rs 15,000 for the gadget making it unaffordable, especially for poor maxi cab and motor cab owners.

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