Kochi, Tuesday 06 Jan 2009: Though lorries from Kerala are not part of the nation-wide goods transporters’ strike from Monday, the agitation will affect inter-State movement of commodities.
The transporters are on strike demanding reduction in the price of diesel by at least Rs.10 a litre, in keeping with the fall in the international price of crude oil.

They have sought exemption from payment of toll for six months and permission for free movement of vehicles across the country without permits and taxes. Another demand is amendments to the Motor Vehicles Act and the Carriers Act.

Lorry operators in the State are keeping away from the strike since the demands have little bearing on them. Most goods transporters hire lorries to ferry their cargo. Sources in the transport industry said that the goods transporters had embarked on the strike to pressure the government on different counts.