Truck owners demand the establishment of an authority to resolve issues

Truck owners demand the establishment of an authority to resolve issues

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, July 4, 2024: The Dakshina Kannada District Truck Owners Association has urged the central and state governments to establish an authority to address issues related to truck terminals, GST, tolls, loading and unloading costs, and the rising price of diesel.

Despite numerous appeals and protests to the concerned authorities, there has been no response. In a press conference, the association’s president, Sushanth Shetty, expressed dissatisfaction and warned that street protests might be necessary in the future.

Since the implementation of GST, the price of trucks has increased from Rs. 24 lakhs in 2014 to Rs. 45 lakhs. Truck owners have to bear the costs of loading and unloading. Additionally, the burden of tolls falls on truck owners. The rise in diesel prices further exacerbates their financial strain, he complained.

Currently, all vehicles are equipped with GPS and panic button systems. However, the government is insisting on the installation of new GPS systems and has directed the removal of LED lights from vehicles. Such serious issues faced by truck owners necessitate the establishment of an authority. The demand for the construction of a truck terminal in the city remains pending, even though a suitable location was identified two years ago, the process has stalled, alleged General Secretary Sunil D’Souza.

Truck owners, who purchase trucks on loans from banks and financial institutions to run their businesses, are facing financial difficulties due to these burdens and are also experiencing harassment from banks, said Honorary President Sujith Alva.

Honorary Advisor B.S. Chandru and Joint Secretary Nayan Kumar were also present at the press conference.