Truckers' strike may push inflation up
Sandeep Phukan
Wednesday, January 07, 2009, (New Delhi)
It is the third day of the nationwide truckers strike but there are no signs of any compromise.
"I can only request transporters to currently withdraw the strike and go for negotiable settlement," said Union Surface Transport Minister T R Baalu.
The All India Motor transport Congress, who have 60 lakh members, said the strike will end only if the government agrees to their demands, including a Rs 10 cut in diesel prices.
So far, transporters have spared the movement of essential supplies like milk, fruits, vegetables and medicines. But fears of a shortage have already pushed vegetables prices up in Punjab and Uttar Pradesh.
And this should get the political class worried. According to the National Council of Applied Economic Research, the ongoing strike is likely to push up inflation by half a percent.
Those bearing the brunt are casual labourers.
"This truck strike is a great problem for those of us who work as labourers. We have no money for food and are hungry. I hope the matter is settled soon," said Lakappa, a labourer.
The movement of industrial goods has been most severely hit in Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka and Maharashtra. In Chennai too, the cargo is piling up at the Railway Station.
If the strike continues and essential commodities are affected, the common man will soon feel the impact.
In the past one year, controlling inflation has been a topmost priority. Now, close to the elections, a prolonged strike can be the spoiler.