Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, May 17: J&K Motor Transport Companies Association (JKMTCA), president Gajan Singh has expressed resentment against the Government for neglecting the transports in the massive Rs 20 lakh crore package announced by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
In a statement issued here today, Khajuria said that the transport sector has played a vital role in transporting the goods across the country amid COVID-19 crisis. He said that the truckers plying on the highways to carry medicines and essential items during the lockdown do not have usual places to eat and NHAI `should provide them food at its Toll Plazas. He said truckers facing problems as Dhabas and roadside eateries are closed. Despite all odds, they are still playing their role during the time of crisis, he added.
Singh said that it’s very strange that the Prime Minister has neglected the transport sector by giving noting to them in the package. He suggested Government to provide relief package and safety gears for truck drivers and helpers since they are also part of essential service provider. He also demanded Government to set up a 24X7 helpline number for truck drivers for help in case of any interruption on highways.
He further said on one hand BJP has demoted the erstwhile J&K State into a Union Territory and on the other hand the Central Government led by BJP is not implementing laws of UT in J&K, thus depriving the residents from their rights. He appealed to the Lt Governor to immediately revoke the 50 per cent hike on Excise Duty on retail sale of liquor in J&K, failing which the people have no other option to come on roads.
Meanwhile, All J&K Goods-Carrier Association Jammu led by Harbans Singh has demanded relief for the transport operators from the package announced by the PM Modi. Singh regretted that despite ensuring essential supplies all over the country during this tough time of lockdown amidst COVID-19, the truckers/ owners are being deprived of the package. They should be provided relief and exemption in bank interests and loan installments.
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