TV
Amid the ongoing ‘Quit Steering Wheel’ protest by the Odisha Drivers’ Mahasangha, the state government has assured that a resolution to the crisis is likely to be reached by tonight.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra said, “We are hopeful that the issue will be resolved by tonight. The state government is considering most of the drivers' demands positively.”
Thousands of commercial drivers across Odisha have halted fuel and goods transportation for the third consecutive day, severely disrupting the supply of petrol, diesel, and essential commodities across the state.
Dismissing concerns of a major supply breakdown, the minister added, “There is no shortage of petrol and diesel in the state as around 150 tankers reached Bhubaneswar yesterday. Similarly, 76 tankers reached Cuttack too. We have made all arrangements so that the tankers reach every part of the State. There is no need to panic.”
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Patra also clarified that the food supply in the state remains stable. “There is no scarcity of essential food items in markets. Shops are well-stocked,” he said.
Issuing a stern warning, the minister stated that strict action would be taken against anyone found hoarding or engaging in black marketing of essential commodities during the strike period.
The drivers’ association is pressing for a 7-point charter of demands, including pension, insurance, and job security. Negotiations with the government are ongoing.
