PUNE, 3rd July 2025: The ongoing strike by goods transporters across Maharashtra received a considerable response in Pune on Wednesday. Although vehicles transporting agricultural produce were exempted on the first day, they are set to join the protest from Thursday, according to Dr. Baba Shinde, President of the Maharashtra State Vehicle Drivers and Owners Association.
Dr. Shinde said the agitation has been launched to press for key demands: immediate stoppage of arbitrary fine collection by traffic police, cancellation of previously imposed fines, withdrawal of the mandatory cleaner rule, relaxation in entry and time restrictions for commercial vehicles, and resolution of issues related to e-challans.
On Wednesday, several truck and tempo drivers joined the strike by halting their operations. Goods that were already loaded were delivered, but no new loading or transport activity took place. From Thursday, vehicles carrying essential items like grains, milk, vegetables, flowers, and medicines will also participate in the protest.
Despite high demand from consumers, no fresh goods are being loaded into transport vehicles. If the strike continues for four more days, shortages in the market are likely to become visible, said Raykumar Nahar, President of the Poona Merchants’ Chamber.
Dr. Shinde further added that the strike is gaining traction across the state and its intensity will continue to grow in the coming days.