The ongoing drivers' strike in Odisha, now in its third day, has brought transportation services to a grinding halt, affecting the movement of essential goods across the state. Despite the chaos, the state government has assured that most of the drivers' demands will be met, and the issue will be resolved by tonight after discussions with the drivers' association.
Supplies Minister Krishna Chandra Patra has stated that the government is committed to finding a solution and has instructed officials to engage in dialogue with the drivers' union. "We will not cause an oil shortage in the state. There is oil in the tank, so no one needs to panic," Patra said, adding that action will be taken against anyone trying to blackmarket essential goods.
Meanwhile, Petroleum Dealers' Association General Secretary Sanjay Latha has urged people not to crowd petrol pumps unnecessarily, warning that continued panic buying could lead to an artificial shortage. "If such a situation continues at petrol pumps, then an artificial shortage will be created," Latha said. Despite the strike, 150 tankers have already reached various parts of the state, and 45 tankers from Paradweep have left for different districts under tight security.
The Odisha Drivers' Mahasangha, which spearheaded the strike, has been demanding:
- Inclusion of Auto-Rickshaw Drivers in Welfare Board: Bringing auto-rickshaw drivers under the ambit of the Odisha Motor Transport Drivers and Workers' Welfare Board.
- Pension Scheme: Implementing a pension scheme for drivers above 60 years.
- Parking and Restrooms: Constructing restrooms and parking facilities every 100 km on major roads.
- Protection from Harassment: Enacting laws to protect drivers from public harassment.
- Reservation for Local Drivers: Reserving 70% of driving jobs in mining and industrial sectors for local Odisha drivers.
- Driver's Day: Declaring September 1 as National Drivers' Day.
- Exemption from Police Checks: Rolling back the policy allowing police to conduct vehicle checks.
The strike, which has affected nearly four lakh drivers, will continue until the drivers' union president Prashant Menduli announces a decision. The government has held multiple rounds of talks with the drivers' union but has yet to reach a concrete resolution.