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The ongoing strike by heavy vehicle drivers entered its second day, causing fuel shortages at various locations across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). This scarcity led to long queues and traffic congestions at most fuel stations in Mumbai and its satellite towns, inconveniencing motorists.
The scarcity prompted panic buying among residents, resulting in stockpiling of essential goods. In response, Bal Malkit Singh, the core committee chairman of All India Motor Transport Congress, urged truckers to resume work.
He referenced a meeting with senior Union home ministry officials in Delhi, announcing a hold on the implementation of the 10-year jail provision for hit-and-run cases under new laws.
Source: The New Indian Express
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Chief Minister Eknath Shinde directed district collectors to engage with striking drivers for resolution at the district level. Additionally, ministers like Chhagan Bhujbal and Deepak Kesarkar intervened, instructing authorities to ensure an uninterrupted supply of petrol, diesel, and LPG while urging school bus drivers to refrain from joining the strike.
The strike impacted the supply chain, with the APMC market yard in Vashi experiencing reduced deliveries of essential commodities. Protesters outside oil terminals hindered tanker drivers from collecting fuel for distribution to pumps, leading to heightened demand and long queues at petrol stations.
Former Petrol Dealers' Association president Ravi Shinde highlighted the challenges faced by tanker drivers due to lack of police escort. Meanwhile, the police arrested protesters blocking the Eastern Express Highway in Vikhroli, and concerns arose among school bus owners about diesel shortages affecting services.
Source: The Federal
In response, some entities like BEST and Mahanagar Gas assured minimal disruption by adjusting their fleet to utilize alternative fuel sources like electric and CNG buses. However, this upheaval has notably affected transportation services relying on diesel and gasoline, including autos, taxis, and certain buses.
The Union home ministry clarified its stance, stating discussions with transport congress representatives would precede any decision regarding the implementation of the stringent new rule on hit-and-run cases.
