VISAKHAPATNAM: With Andhra Pradesh Lorry Owners Association deciding to join the indefinite lorry strike called by the South Indian Motor Transport (SIMTA) from March 30, collector Pravin Kumar on Tuesday asked the department officials concerned to make arrangements for supply of vegetables and other essentials.
In a meeting with the transport, RTC, police, civil supplies officials and representatives of the lorry owners association at the Collectorate, the collector said that the regular supply of essentials to all the ration shops should be transported by Wednesday evening. He also asked the petrol bunks to replenish their stocks before the strike day. The officials were also instructed to ensure that there was hassle-free supply of essential commodities like rice, milk, water and vegetables for the commoners. The vegetables which are regularly transported to rythu bazaars and markets will be done by city buses.
“The truck bandh will be staged by lorry owners associations of five states, demanding reduction in the third party insurance premium, cut in challan and toll fees, RTA fees and other issues with toll charges,” said district transport officer Venkateswara Rao.
There are around 10,000 lorries from Gajuwaka, Anakapalle, Anandapuram and Vizianagaram, including quarry lorries, oil tankers and mini vans that ply daily in the district.
A control room has been set up to take immediate action to deal with any emergency.