Goods movement hit in Telangana as truckers begin strike

Owners of over 2.5 lakh lorries and other vehicles carrying goods have gone on a strike in Telangana demanding a single permit in the state and in Andhra Pradesh along with reduction of taxes.
The strike by the lorry owners, which began late last night, hit the supply of essential items like vegetables and a consequent increase in prices.
Many consumers at the 'Rythu Bazars' (government-run centres where vegetables and essential food items are sold) in Hyderabad complained of a hike in prices.
The truck owners began the stir after talks held with the state government yesterday failed.
The strike evoked good response in Hyderabad and also other districts in the state, Telangana lorry owners association president Bhakar Reddy said.

Owners of goods carrying vehicles like vans and autos are also supporting the strike, he said.

In a charter of 11 demands, the main demand of the truckers is putting in place a single permit in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh to reduce the tax burden on them.
They want governments in the two states to have an understanding for the purpose.
The other major demands include reducing taxes and not suspending the driving licence of drivers immediately in the event of an accident, Reddy said.