Truckers resume service, tankers on stir mode
Source: Chronicle News Service
Jiribam, June 18 2024:
Goods trucks have resumed operations from Jiribam to Imphal amid heavy security escorts after facing a road blockade by some Kuki womenfolk near Tatbung village on Monday.
Despite the presence of security convoy, the trucks were forced to return to Jiribam on Monday.
Meanwhile, petroleum tankers, including LPG bullet tankers, remain on strike, demanding guarantees for their safe travel.
On Tuesday morning, 74 goods-laden trucks, including 44 from the Food Corporation of India (FCI), departed Jiribam for Imphal.
However, around 150 petroleum tankers are still stationed in Jiribam.
A joint meeting of petroleum tanker drivers was held in Jiribam on Tuesday morning, resulting in a resolution to cease service until their demands are met.
The drivers condemned the frequent gun attacks on petroleum tankers along the NH 37 and recalled an agreement reached with the state government on April 23.Although goods trucks have started their journey to Imphal, petroleum tankers have refused to join the convoy.
They are demanding adequate number of Road Opening Party (ROP) teams along NH 37, an increase in the number of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel in the convoy, and a formal agreement with the Kuki Women's Union (KWU) to lift the blockade in Tatbung village before resuming their services.
Earlier on Monday, a meeting was held between the Jiribam DC, Tamenglong police, senior officers of 39 Assam Rifles, and KWU leaders.
An agreement was reached to lift the blockade if the transportation of medicines and food for Kuki villages, as well as their horticultural produces like pineapples, are not blocked in Jiribam.
Following this, the DC and senior security officials met with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Jiribam to convey the understanding reached with KWU.
The CSOs clarified that they do not impose any restrictions mentioned in the meeting with KWU and disassociated themselves from any such actions.