POL transporters suspend strike as govt assures security

IMPHAL, AUG 2 (NPN): Petroleum product transporters and dealers in Manipur on Sunday suspended their two‑day “steering wheel down strike” after the state government assured intensified security measures along the Imphal–Jiribam section of NH‑37.
The strike, launched on July 31, had halted the supply of petroleum products from Malom Depot, Imphal West to retail outlets across the state. The agitation was called off following a high‑level meeting chaired by chief minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Saturday, after which police issued a circular outlining revised security arrangements.
Additional DGP Lhari Dorjee Lhatoo stated that convoy movement will be strictly monitored, with IGP Zone‑III designated as nodal officer. District SSPs along the route have been directed to enforce the SOP, brief CAPF personnel, conduct special drives against extortion, and engage with the public to raise awareness of legal consequences.
Two vulnerable highway stretches — Kambiron–Sibilong and Makru–Old Kaiphundai in Noney and Tamenglong districts — will receive special deployment to prevent illegal activities.
In a joint statement, the Consortium of Petroleum Transporters Fraternity, Retail Outlet Dealers, LPG Distributors and Drivers Association said the agitation was suspended after assurances from the chief minister, home department, and CAF&PD department. Authorities agreed to review and revise the SOP, with a permanent framework to be published in the state Gazette.
With the strike withdrawn, loading and distribution of petroleum products resumed immediately at all depots and outlets.
State home minister Govindas Konthoujam reiterated that the government will take all necessary steps to curb extortion along highways and restore confidence among transporters. He said concerns raised by the fraternity would be examined to ensure uninterrupted supply of essential commodities.
Transporters have long alleged that illegal taxation and extortion on NH‑37, particularly since the ethnic conflict of May 2023, have inflated operating costs and threatened the steady flow of goods. They warned that persistent extortion has placed an unsustainable financial burden on operators, jeopardising the uninterrupted movement of essential commodities.