Transporters Announce Indefinite Strike From August 31, Cite Unresolved Issues and Lack of Consultation with Authorities

Jammu, 25-08-2023 : Transporters have announced their intention to commence an indefinite strike beginning August 31, following a five-day ultimatum issued to the JK UT Administration. They have declined participation in the JCCI sponsored Jammu bandh scheduled for August 26. Speaking at a press conference, Ajit Singh, the Chairman of the All J&K Transport Welfare Association, emphasized the value of dialogue and deliberate decision-making, underscoring that they stand in solidarity with the legitimate concerns of the Jammu populace. These concerns notably pertain to the removal of the Sarore Toll Plaza and the unconditional release of leaders and activists affiliated with the Yuva Rajput Sabha.

Singh highlighted that with the impending Rakhi festival and the pilgrimage events for Shri Amarnath Ji and Budha Amarnath Ji, a pivotal choice has been made to initiate an indefinite Chakka Jam strike from Lakhanpur to Kashmir starting August 31. This decision hinges upon the government’s responsiveness to the aforementioned issues. Regarding their abstention from the Jammu Chamber’s endorsed bandh, the Transport Union leader expressed discontent for not being included in the consultation process by JCCI representatives. They received minimal communication, lacking a comprehensive discussion.

Singh articulated that a substantial five-day window was allotted to the Administration for action. The imperativeness of addressing the Toll Plaza matter is accentuated by the numerous organizations presently engaged in protest. The imposition of tolls without adequate road infrastructure, especially following the diversion of traffic to border roads due to damage sustained by the Tarnah bridge, is contested. The journey duration from Jammu to Kathua has significantly extended, taking over three hours.

The leader of AJKTWA fervently implored Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and National Highway authorities to suspend the Sarore Toll Plaza, citing its unjust proximity of within 60 kilometers and the absence of commensurate road facilities.

The assembly included other prominent figures, such as AJKTWA president Vijay Singh Chib, Banihal Route Bus Union president Gurdeep Singh Pappu, Bharat Bhushan Sharma – president of the Chhamb Route Bus Union, Lal Singh – president of the R S Pura Bus Union, Devinder Choudhary – Taxi Union president, as well as leaders of the Mini-bus, Tempo Travelers/Sumo, Truck, and Autorickshaw Unions.

Subsequently, the transporters embarked on a protest march from the Ware House to Bikram Chowk and Tawi bridge, urging the suspension of the Sarore Toll Plaza and the release of Yuva Rajput Sabha leaders incarcerated in Kathua jail.

In a parallel development, Transport Union leaders convened with the Divisional Commissioner Jammu, engaging in discussions concerning the impending strike and the issues associated with the Toll Plaza. Reassurances were extended by the administration, committing to resolving the Toll Plaza matter within a two-day timeframe. Additionally, the matter of releasing YRS leaders was addressed during the meeting with Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar, as relayed by AJKTWA president Vijay Singh Chib.