Bengaluru: The Federation of Karnataka State Lorry Owners and Agents Association (FOKSLOAA) launched an indefinite statewide strike starting midnight on April 14, protesting against rising fuel prices and alleged harassment at toll plazas. The strike has brought nearly six lakh lorries—belonging to 129 truckers’ associations—off the roads, severely disrupting the movement of goods within and outside Karnataka.
The strike has already begun to show a significant impact on the state’s logistics and supply chain. With the transport of essential commodities stalled, experts warn of a sharp rise in prices and a major hit to economic activities if the deadlock continues.
The stir, which has effectively paralyzed goods transport across Karnataka, has found support at the national level too. Harish Sabharwal, President of the All India Motor Transport Congress, told PTI, “The initial response shows the stir is successful. Neither the trucks from any part of India would enter Karnataka, nor trucks from the state will go out.”
Somasundaram Balan, the Honorary General Secretary of FOKSLOAA, criticized the state government for ignoring repeated appeals to address their grievances. He said the strike was the last resort to draw attention to long-standing and critical issues plaguing the transport sector.
According to a circular issued by FOKSLOAA to its members, a steep hike in Value Added Tax (VAT) on diesel—resulting in an increase of ₹5 per litre over the last nine months—has substantially raised operating costs. This, coupled with alleged toll-related harassment, has pushed the truckers to the brink.
In response, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is expected to chair a high-level meeting at his residence to deliberate on the truckers’ demands and explore possible resolutions, reported Times Now.
