Jamshedpur Truckers Threaten Strike Over Stagnant Freight Rates

Annual Vishwakarma Puja announced; association warns of road blockades if demands not met

Jamshedpur Truck Trailer Owners Association warns of strike action if freight rates aren’t revised by September 13, 2024.

JAMSHEDPUR – The local transporters’ association has issued a threat of road blockades and freight stoppage in the event that freight rates are not revised, citing years of stagnation.

In order to address industry concerns and declare forthcoming events, the Jamshedpur Truck Trailer Owners Association conducted a press conference at Hotel Dayal International in Sakchi.

President Jasbir Singh Sira presided over the conference, which was attended by General Secretary Manish Kumar, Patron Shri Dhananjay Rai, and Satbir Singh Somu.

The Transport Nagar parking premises will host the annual Vishwakarma Puja on September 17, 2024, as disclosed by the association.

A cultural program featuring a prominent Bhojpuri artist will be held on the evening of September 19, followed by the distribution of prasad and bhog on September 18.

The leaders expressed profound apprehension regarding freight rates, which have remained unaltered for four years in defiance of the increase in costs.

"We’ve seen sharp increases in vehicle, diesel, engine parts, and tire costs, yet our freight rates remain stagnant," indicated Jasbir Singh Sira.

In the event that rates are not revised by September 13, 2024, the association has issued a warning of road blockades and has suspended freight movement in the Jamshedpur and Saraikela districts.

Additionally, they intend to submit a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner and other officials that delineates their demands.

Manish Kumar underscored that "if our demands are not met, we may be compelled to call for a bandh."

The association explicitly stated that the corporations involved would be accountable for any supply chain disruptions.

They also expressed their backing for the recent demonstrations by unions in Joda and Keonjhar, anticipating a similar level of solidarity if their demands are not met.

Dr. Rajesh Gupta, a local economist, stated, "The truckers’ demands underscore the more extensive issue of inflation that impacts a variety of sectors." Economic stability necessitates a balanced solution.