Maharashtra Govt Steps In To Avert Fuel Crisis Amid Truckers Strike

The Maharashtra government has sought police intervention to ensure an uninterrupted supply of fuel across the state as truckers continue their strike against stringent jail and fine norms under the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita.

The Maharashtra government's Food, Civil Supply, and Consumer Protection Department has taken proactive measures to address the potential disruption in the supply of petrol, diesel, and LPG cylinders due to a strike by truckers. The strike stems from concerns over stringent jail and fine norms introduced under the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), which replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code.

Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita's Impact on Truck Drivers

Under the BNS, drivers involved in serious road accidents due to negligent driving and failing to inform the police or authorities face severe penalties. They could be sentenced to up to 10 years in prison or fined up to Rs 7 lakh. This has raised concerns among truck drivers, leading to the current strike.

Government's Response to the Strike

Recognizing the potential impact of the strike on essential fuel supplies, the Food, Civil Supply, and Consumer Protection Department has reached out to all police commissioners and superintendents of police. The department has expressed concerns about the disruption and requested their intervention to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted supply of petrol, diesel, and LPG cylinders.

Impact on Petroleum Product Transportation

The state-level coordinator for the oil industry in Maharashtra brought the issue to the attention of the Food, Civil Supply, and Consumer Protection Department. Truck drivers and petroleum product transporters were reportedly on strike in front of the Mumbai refinery, affecting the dispatch of LPG cylinders and other petroleum products like petrol, diesel, and kerosene.

Request for Police Action and Cooperation

Considering the potential consequences of the strike, the Food, Civil Supply Department has urged the police to take necessary measures to ensure the uninterrupted supply of these essential products. Additionally, the department has called for appropriate action under the ESCO Act against drivers and transporters who disrupt the supply of petroleum products.

Appeal for Responsible Behavior

The Food, Civil Supply Department has also appealed to truckers to refrain from engaging in untoward incidents or causing law and order problems. The department emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and cooperation during this challenging situation.

The Maharashtra government's prompt response to the truckers' strike demonstrates its commitment to ensuring the uninterrupted supply of essential fuel products to citizens. By seeking police intervention and urging responsible behavior from all parties involved, the government aims to mitigate the impact of the strike and maintain public order.