Maharashtra is set to witness major disruptions in its daily transportation network as two key unions, goods transporters and school bus operators have called for an indefinite strike starting this week. The Maharashtra State Vehicle Drivers-Owners and Representatives Federation is launching its agitation from July 1, while the School Bus Owners Association will join from July 2.
The strike is primarily in protest against what both associations claim are arbitrary and excessive fines imposed through the state’s e-challan system. They allege that vehicle owners are being harassed with mounting penalties, severely affecting their financial viability and ability to operate.
The goods transport federation has warned that the ongoing collection of fines without proper hearings or verification is unjust. They claim the e-challan system is being misused, and that the government has repeatedly ignored their appeals for reform. The union has cautioned that prolonged protests could impact the delivery of essential goods like food, fuel, and medicine across the state.
Meanwhile, the School Bus Owners Association has declared a complete halt of school bus services beginning July 2. With thousands of schoolchildren dependent on this service, the move is likely to cause significant inconvenience. The association has objected to the fines levied for non-installation or malfunctioning of safety equipment such as CCTV cameras, GPS trackers, and web readers. It also criticized penalties imposed when buses halt near school gates to pick up or drop off students a routine activity in the sector.
Anil Garg, President of the School Bus Owners Association, condemned the government’s inaction and called for an immediate solution. “For years, the school transport sector has been sidelined. We are demanding a fair and uniform policy. A joint task force comprising the RTO, police, and transport associations should be formed to address these systemic issues,” Garg said.
With both unions standing firm on their demands, the indefinite strike threatens to disrupt the movement of goods and daily school operations. Several educational institutions are already considering shifting to online classes or revising their schedules to cope with the anticipated transport shutdown.
Both associations have stated they are open to discussions but will not call off the strike unless their demands are met with concrete action.
