Karnataka Lorry Strike: Truckers Likely to Halt Operations Next Week

Just days after the Karnataka government managed to pacify Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) employees and prevent a looming strike, another challenge is brewing-this time from the lorry owners.

Angered by the recent diesel price hike, lorry owners have decided to call for a statewide strike. A crucial meeting of the Lorry Owners Association has been scheduled for Saturday to finalize the decision.

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Association President Speaks Out

The president of the Federation of Karnataka State Lorry Owners and Agents Association (FKSLOAA), G R Shanmugappa said,''The price of diesel has been increased twice since the Congress government came to power. We are convening a meeting tomorrow to discuss the issue and plan to go on strike next week in protest.''

A few days ago, the state government hiked the sales tax on diesel by 2.73%, leading to a price increase of ₹2 per litre. This revision came into effect on April 1. Following the hike, diesel in Bengaluru now costs ₹91.02 per litre.

While the move has drawn sharp criticism, the state government has defended the tax revision, citing fiscal needs.

Concerns Over Inflation of Essentials

With prices of essential goods already on the rise, the diesel price hike has sparked fears of further inflation. If transportation costs go up, it could lead to yet another round of price hikes, warn industry insiders. A lorry strike would only worsen the situation, disrupting the supply chain and potentially causing shortages of essential commodities across Karnataka.