Toll Tax: Truckers go on indefinite strike in Punjab, Haryana

Chandigarh: Truckers on Thursday went on indefinite strike in Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh on the call of All India motor Transport Congress (AIMTC) to protest against the toll system across the region.

     "We have stopped new booking and delivery of goods as the truckers numbering around two lakh in the region comprising Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh have joined the nationwide indefinite strike today," AIMTC leader Charan Singh Lohara said here.

     However, trucks carrying essential items, including vegetables and fruits and medicines are plying as usual, he added.

     He said the government's proposal for introducing e-toll system is not acceptable as it still requires manual intervention which breeds corruption.

     The system of 'tag line' too is also not acceptable as it is many times faulty, he added.

     "If the truck is stopped at a toll plaza it breaks supply and chain," said Navin, member of AIMTC.

     "Our demand is that trucks are allowed free and hassle free movement," he added.

     He said that with proper system at place, wastage of fuel will be stopped, and delays in transportation of goods will come down.

     AIMTC has demanded scrapping of toll system, terming it a tool of harassment and sought one-time payment of taxes as well as simplification of TDS process.

     He said the electronic toll system suggested by the Highways Minister is not a solution as it is a "failed concept".

     "We are going to suffer losses to the tune of crore of rupees due to strike," he said.

TI