Talcher: The truckers’ association in Talcher has resorted to an economic blockade against substantial cut in coal transportation via road by Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL).
The association claims that nearly 2,000 truck owners were eking out a living by transporting coal from MCL to various industrial units. However, their business has been hit after MCL switched to coal transportation by trains.
“MCL has tied up with several industrialists and has conspired to transport coal via wagons. This will adversely affect the business of truck owners. We will continue with the economic blockade till MCL permits auction of 6 lakh tonne coal from six collieries,” said Rajkishore Sahu, an agitator.
A rail roko agitation was also staged today as a mark of protest against coal transportation via trains.
“There is no dearth of coal and all truckers will get adequate loading scope. A district-level meeting will be held today as the truckers are demanding a written notification from MCL regarding coal transportation,” said Talcher Sub-Collector, Paresh Nayak.