IMPHAL, December 4: The All Manipur Road Transport Drivers and Motor Workers’ Union (AMRTDMWU) has launched an indefinite steering-wheel down strike along Imphal- Jiribam road (NH-27) against the burning of a cement loaded truck by miscreants on December 3.
Announcing their agitation in a press conference held at its office today the union’s general secretary, M Anil Meitei said that the union will not call-off its strike unless proper security arrangement are made along the highway.
Claiming security lapses as the main reason for the incident, he said the deputy Chief Minister who also holds the Home portfolio continues to remain indifferent to the plight of the transporters despite several appeals made to him.
Anil further demanded proper compensation for the loss, and urged proper action against the nearest police station for their negligence.
A truck bearing registration number MN 03T 0196 was burned down at Leingangpokpi, under Leingangpokpi police station around 6:30pm on December 3.
The transporters have been urging the government to deploy sufficient security forces including setting up of highway protection force along both the national highways to protect the transporters, said Anil adding that they are not satisfied with the Government’s measure which is unfortunate.
The president of the All Manipur Truck Owners Welfare Association (MTOWA), Hijam Ranjit, showing solidarity to the transporter divulged that his association will give full cooperation and support in the steering down strike launched by AMRTDMWU till the demands are met.
He further reiterated the demand to setup a Highway Protection Force at the earliest for the welfare of the transporter.