Tensions rise in Meghalaya amid truckers’ protest as hundreds of truck owners and drivers halted transportation in protest against what they describe as “unfair” cement transport rates. The agitation, led by various truckers’ associations, has caused major disruptions in the supply chain, especially in industrial zones and cement-producing districts.
The protest, which began earlier this week, has affected cement transportation from major factories located in East Jaintia Hills. The district, known for housing some of Meghalaya’s largest cement industries, has witnessed a standoff between truckers and company representatives over freight charges.
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Truckers claim that existing transport rates are too low to cover operational costs, especially with rising fuel prices and maintenance expenses. The associations have demanded a revision of the rates to ensure fair compensation and sustainability for drivers and owners alike.
Truckers Demand Fair Freight Rates
Leaders of the Joint Action Committee of Truck Owners and Drivers said that they have been demanding an upward revision of cement transport rates for several months. However, despite repeated appeals, the cement companies have not responded positively.
They said that tensions rise in Meghalaya amid truckers’ protest because the companies continue to impose rates that make transportation unprofitable. Many truckers said they were forced to operate at a loss, leading to growing frustration among workers in the sector.
One truck owner stated, “We are not asking for charity. We only want rates that reflect the current cost of fuel and repairs. With prices increasing, how can we survive on outdated transport rates?”
The associations have urged the state government to intervene and facilitate negotiations between truckers and the cement companies.
Disruption in Supply and Movement
The strike has already begun to impact cement supply chains across Meghalaya and neighboring states. Several cement plants in East Jaintia Hills reported a halt in dispatches as hundreds of trucks remained parked in protest.
Local traders and construction companies have expressed concern about potential shortages if the strike continues. Some said that prolonged disruptions could increase the cost of construction materials and delay ongoing projects.
Officials from the East Jaintia Hills district administration said they are monitoring the situation closely. They appealed to both sides to resolve the issue amicably through dialogue.
The administration also warned that prolonged disruption could hurt the state’s economy, given that the cement industry is one of Meghalaya’s largest contributors to revenue and employment.
Truckers Blame Companies for Ignoring Concerns
Truckers accused cement manufacturers of neglecting their concerns despite years of service. They alleged that the companies had increased the price of cement multiple times but failed to revise transport rates.
A member of the protest committee said that tensions rise in Meghalaya amid truckers’ protest because the workers feel exploited. “We are the backbone of the cement industry. Without us, there is no transport, no distribution. Yet our voices go unheard,” he said.
He added that truckers face multiple challenges, including poor road conditions, rising diesel prices, and maintenance costs. Despite these issues, they continue to receive low payments that make their livelihood unsustainable.
The associations have warned that they will continue their protest until cement companies agree to revise the rates. They also urged the government to fix a standard freight policy that ensures fairness for both transporters and manufacturers.
State Government Urges Dialogue
The Meghalaya government has called for calm and urged both parties to find a mutually acceptable solution. Transport Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh said that the government is aware of the issue and has reached out to company representatives and truckers’ associations.
She said that discussions will be held soon to address grievances and restore normal transport operations. “We understand the challenges faced by both sides. Dialogue and cooperation are the only ways to resolve this peacefully,” she stated.
The minister also appealed to truckers to resume transportation in the public interest, assuring them that the government would facilitate fair talks.
Public Concerns Over Rising Costs
The ongoing protest has triggered concern among the public, especially traders and consumers who rely on steady cement supply. Local hardware store owners said they fear shortages could lead to inflated prices in the coming weeks.
Construction workers also worry about potential job losses if projects get delayed due to material shortages. “Many people depend on these industries. If the strike continues, everyone will suffer,” said a contractor from Jowai.
Hope for Resolution
As tensions rise in Meghalaya amid truckers’ protest, all eyes are now on the upcoming talks between truckers, company officials, and the government. Many hope that dialogue will lead to an agreement that benefits both the transport community and the cement producers.
For now, trucks remain off the roads, and operations at several cement plants are either slowed or suspended. The situation remains tense, but stakeholders believe a resolution is possible if all sides show willingness to compromise.
Truckers’ leaders said they are ready to end the strike once their demands are met. “We only want fair rates. Once that happens, we’ll be back on the roads, serving the people of Meghalaya,” said a driver from Khliehriat.
With negotiations expected soon, Meghalaya hopes to restore peace, normalcy, and smooth transportation in one of its most vital economic sectors.
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