Truck and dumper drivers nationwide have initiated a chakka jam protest, also known as the Drivers Strike in India, in opposition to the central government’s amendment of the Hit and Run Act. This widespread movement, stretching from Mumbai and Indore to Delhi, Haryana, and UP, has disrupted traffic as drivers park their trucks on roads to voice their discontent. In Maharashtra, tensions escalated as some truck drivers took an aggressive stance, leading to confrontations with the police, amplifying the repercussions of the protest across the country.
Hit and Run Law Overview
The Hit and Run Act, recently amended by the government, adopts a stringent approach towards drivers involved in accidents. Under this law, truck or dumper drivers responsible for causing harm can face up to 10 years of imprisonment and a hefty fine of 7 lakhs. Also this marks a departure from the previous provision, which allowed accused drivers to obtain bail swiftly, resulting in a current provision of 2 years imprisonment.
Truck Drivers’ Grievances
Expressing strong dissent, truck drivers are vehemently opposed to the new law, deeming it excessively strict. The demand resonating among the drivers is the withdrawal of this legislation, prompting road stop movements along national highways. Mumbai and Maharashtra are particularly aflame with truck drivers united against the government’s legislation, causing extensive traffic disruptions.
Nationwide Impact on Fuel Supply
The agitation by truck drivers has spilled over to impact the general populace. The halt in truck movements severely disrupts fuel transportation, causing shortages at numerous petrol pumps. Moreover reports indicate long queues at pumps and some outlets facing a complete absence of fuel. The crisis has persisted for three days, affecting Indian Oil’s fuel supply vehicles. Furthermore In response to the petrol-diesel crisis, Himachal Pradesh has seen a resumption of fuel supply under tight police presence.
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Shortage and Queues in Chandigarh, Punjab
The shortage of petrol and diesel has extended to Chandigarh, Punjab, where long queues at pumps are evidence of the widespread impact on fuel availability.
Conclusion
The nationwide chakka jam protest, also recognized as the Drivers Strike in India, by truck and dumper drivers, sparked by amendments to the Hit and Run Act, has led to significant disruptions in traffic and fuel supply. The truck drivers’ vehement opposition to the stringent law has ignited protests and clashes with the police, creating a challenging situation for both the government and the general public.
FAQs
Why did the government amend the Hit and Run Act?
The government’s decision to amend the Hit and Run Act aims to take a stricter stance against drivers involved in accidents, also emphasizing increased penalties and reduced chances of immediate bail for the accused.
What are the specific demands of the protesting truck drivers?
The primary demand of the protesting truck drivers is the withdrawal of the amended Hit and Run Act, which they perceive as excessively harsh and detrimental to their interests.
How is the nationwide trucker agitation impacting the general public?
The trucker agitation has led to disruptions in traffic and a shortage of fuel at petrol pumps, causing long queues and inconvenience for the general public.
