Chaos ensued in Uttar Pradesh and other parts of India as the trucker strike took an unexpected turn, giving rise to a situation of panic buying and disruptions. Video footage showed long queues at fuel stations, chaotic scenes, and congested roads.
After a meeting with Union Home Secretary Ajay Bala, the All India Motor Transport Association (AIMTC) decided to end the nationwide truck driver protests against the new hit-and-run law. The government assured the members of the transport body that the new laws have not been implemented yet and will only be implemented after consultation with the AIMTC.
Despite reports of the trucker strike being called off late on Tuesday night, the aftermath continues to unfold. The strike, initially centered around the BTI SITA's provision for hit-and-run cases, has triggered a chain reaction affecting fuel supply and essential goods. Cities such as Lno Kpur and Varanasi witnessed long queues at filling stations, with many residents opting for full tank refills.
The president of LNO Petrol Diesel Dealers Association, Da Shankar Singh, warned that if stocks are not replenished soon, all pumps in the state could run out by Wednesday afternoon. Meanwhile, the protests' impact on the supply chain is felt beyond fuel shortages; the supply of fruits and vegetables has taken a hit, affecting cities like Meerut, which depends on deliveries from Azadpur M in Delhi. Vegetable prices soared in Meerut, and a 20 to 30% increase in prices was reported in Lno and other places.
The situation is dire, with concerns that the strike's continuation may exacerbate the already challenging conditions in Kpur. The impact extended to public transport, with EAW going off the roads. The city faced a shortage of milk as 140 vehicles supplying the commodity remained idle. Commuters faced difficulties, and armed escorts were provided to the depot of major oil companies in Varanasi.
Truck drivers took to blocking roads, causing extensive traffic jams from Rohania to Rajatalab and Mohansarai to Akri School. Vehicles and ambulances were also stranded due to the protests. As the situation unfolds, authorities are working to normalize supply chains and restore order.
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