Truckers Gear Up for Statewide strike Over Fuel Price Surge and Policy Demands

Truck operators across Karnataka, under the banner of the Federation of Karnataka State Lorry Owners and Agents Association (FKSLOA), have announced an indefinite strike beginning at midnight on April 14, pressing the state government to reverse the recent diesel price hike and address four other critical issues.

According to GR Shanmugappa, President of FKSLOA, around 600,000 trucks will halt operations until the diesel price is rolled back. He emphasized that the protest would be unwavering, with full participation from their members.

Starting from the strike deadline, all trucks transporting goods—ranging from essential commodities and construction materials to fuel and LPG—will remain off the roads, excluding milk delivery vehicles. The strike has gained nationwide traction, with over 60 transport associations across 24 states pledging their support. During the strike, vehicles from these states will not cross into Karnataka.

Shanmugappa criticized the government for increasing diesel prices twice within seven months, leading to soaring transport costs and severe financial stress for truckers. He argued that this burden indirectly impacts every resident of the state.

Beyond the rollback of the diesel price hike, the association is also demanding the abolition of toll charges within Karnataka, elimination of RTO checkpoints at state borders, withdrawal of the central government’s Rs 15,000 fee for Fitness Certificate renewal, and easing of vehicle entry restrictions in Bengaluru.

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