Lorry owners to go on strike from May 1

Bengaluru: Federation of Karnataka State Lorry Owners and Agents Association on Monday threatened to launch a transport strike from May 1 onwards if the state government does not roll back the “unscientific” price hike imposed on the transport sector before 30 April. Addressing a press conference, the association Secretary C Nandish Reddy said, “Since 1 April, older vehicles are subjected to 16 times more fees which has taken a toll on the lives of poor people. Moreover, the validity of fitness certificates have been reduced, throwing the transport sector off balance.” He alleged that the central government earlier imposed a fine of Rs 100 to Rs 500 over violation of traffic rules for heavy vehicles, which has now soared to Rs 5000 to Rs 25,000 and added that the motor vehicle officials are taking advantage of it. Association members Chenna Reddy, Sairam, Pandian and Chandrashekhar were present in the press meet. (Source: Vartha Bharati)