Maharashtra Truck Operators Escalate Strike Over E-Challan Dispute

The indefinite strike by truck operators in Maharashtra is set to intensify as additional associations join the protest against the e-challan system of fine recovery. Uday Barge, a leader of the transporters' action committee, confirmed the lack of government response to their demands as a catalyst for this escalation.

Truckers initiated the strike on Wednesday, demanding relief from the 'indiscriminate' issuance of e-challans by traffic police. Although bus operators have pledged support, they refrained from joining due to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis's appeal.

The transporters' chief demands include scrapping months-old e-challans, halting coercive measures, and waiving existing fines. Despite discussions with officials and assurances of a review within a month by Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, the central issue remains unresolved, leading to significant disruptions in Mumbai and Pune.