Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik on Thursday appealed to transport unions across the state to withdraw their proposed March 5 bandh, a statewide transport strike called by transporters over issues related to the e-challan system, transport taxes and toll charges. He said the government is open to dialogue and committed to resolving concerns through discussion.
Speaking to reporters outside Vidhan Bhavan, the state legislature building in Mumbai, Sarnaik said the government is coordinating with all stakeholders to address grievances raised by the transport sector. He warned that a statewide strike could cause serious inconvenience to commuters and disrupt the supply of essential goods across Maharashtra.
The transport unions, which represent truck owners, bus operators, taxi unions, tempo drivers and auto-rickshaw groups, have raised objections to multiple policies affecting their operations.
Government Clarifies E-Challan System
Sarnaik explained that the e-challan system, an automated traffic penalty system used to enforce road rules through digital monitoring and camera-based detection, is not intended to boost government revenue. He said its primary goal is to improve road safety, ensure traffic discipline and reduce violations.
However, leaders of the Maharashtra Transporters Action Committee (M-TAC), the umbrella body spearheading the protest, claim the system often issues fines without proper verification. According to them, vehicle owners are held responsible even when violations are committed by hired drivers, creating financial and legal complications.
Divided Response Within Transport Sector
While M-TAC has called for the March 5 bandh, the Mumbai Taxi and Autorickshaw Drivers Union has clarified that its members will not participate in the strike. This announcement indicates that not all transport bodies are united in support of the protest.
No Entry Restrictions and Parking Issues
Transporters have also objected to ‘No Entry’ restrictions imposed on goods vehicles in city areas. They argue that such rules are introduced without sufficient consultation and disrupt logistics and cargo movement.
Another major concern is the shortage of dedicated infrastructure for commercial vehicles. Union representatives say most cities lack adequate parking facilities for trucks and goods carriers, forcing drivers to operate under challenging conditions.
Toll Concerns on BOT Roads
Transport operators have further raised the issue of toll collection on Build Operate Transfer (BOT) roads — highway projects developed and maintained by private companies under government agreements. They argue that despite paying various central and state taxes, they are burdened with additional toll charges, increasing their operational costs.
With the March 5 bandh approaching, discussions between the government and transport unions are expected to intensify. The outcome of these talks will determine whether Maharashtra faces a major transport disruption or reaches a negotiated solution.
