Mangaluru: Lorry union calls off strike

Mangaluru: The lorry union’s strike has been called off following a compromise to increase freight rent for transporting coal.

A compromise was reached during a meeting of senior officials held at the District Collector’s office on September 29, led by DC Mullai Muhilan MP. The representatives the Lorry Union and the Transporters participated in the negotiations.

President of Dakshina Kannada Truck Owners Association (Regd) Sushant Shetty said, “Although there have been constant demands for a rent hike for the last ten years, the lorry owners have not received justice. The transporters had promised to raise Rs 100 each on the occasion of declaring a strike. But did not do so.”

“Today morning, the DC held a negotiation meeting and suggested an increase of Rs 150. The rent has been promised to be increased in the next 3 days. Therefore, we have called off the strike,” he said elaborating the outcome of the negotiations.

“The minimum freight rent per tonne for Koppal part is Rs 1050 and Rs 1100 per tonne towards Bellary, and this rent will now be increased by Rs 150 per tonne. This will provide justice to the lorry owners,” he added.

Regional Transport Officer, Police Commissioner, District Superintendent of Police, DCP Mangalore, and Panambur Deputy Commissioner of Police, along with Panambur and Suratkal SI, participated in the meeting.