Drivers’ strike in Odisha: Normalcy in petrol, diesel availability to be restored in 2-3 days

Bhubaneswar: While the ongoing strike by drivers in Odisha has severely affected the supply of petrol and diesel to fuel stations in the state, Utkal Petroleum Dealers’ Association General Secretary Sanjay Lath today said normalcy can be restored within 2-3 days.

He further said that fuel availability at stations in Bhubaneswar will become normal within today. The capital city recorded highest sale of petrol yesterday as 8.25 lakh litres of petrol was sold. The figure stands at around 3.30 lakh litres on normal days, he said.

Tankers carrying fuel have already left for Bhubaneswar from Paradip, he added.

Fuel is sent to over 1600 stations in the state from depots in Paradip, Balasore, Jharsuguda and Jatani using around 2000 tanker trucks. As these vehicles have been intercepted by the agitators, fuel stations are unable to refill their stocks.

Notably, the drivers have launched strike across Odisha for an indefinite period demanding fulfillment of their 10-point charter of demands.

The agitating drivers staged demonstration at various places in the state and resorted to picketing. The agitators were seen stopping commercial vehicles on National Highways.

Formation of a welfare fund, death benefits, social security including pension after 60 years of age are among the demands of the drivers.

However, All Odisha Bus Owners’ Association, Truck Owners’ Association and Auto-rickshaw Owners’ Association have not joined the agitation.