GUWAHATI: The North-East Petroleum Mazdoor Union, affiliated with AITUC, has declared a boycott of loading and unloading activities for petroleum products.
The decision comes in response to the recent amendments to the Motor Vehicle Act by the Central Government, imposing severe penalties on drivers in the event of accidents.
The decision was made during a meeting of the Joint Platform of Motor Sramik Union of Assam, held on January 2, 2024, in Guwahati.
The amendments to the Motor Vehicle Act, which include substantial fines and ten years of imprisonment for drivers involved in accidents, were vehemently opposed by the union members.
They expressed concerns about the harsh repercussions on drivers and demanded the withdrawal of the Act, emphasizing the need for better security measures for drivers.
Munin Mahanta, the President of the North-East Petroleum Mazdoor Union, highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating that the union members had decided to cease their duties across the state for 48 hours, starting from 5 AM on January 5, 2024, to 5 AM on January 7, 2024.
This work stoppage is expected to affect loading and unloading operations at all petroleum oil depots, loading locations, and LPG bottling plants.
In a formal communication addressed to key petroleum authorities, including the Executive Director of Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. (Noonmati, Guwahati), the State Head of Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (Christianbasti, Guwahati), and the Sr. Regional Manager of Hindusthan Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (GS. Road, Guwahati), the union requested understanding and urged them not to pressurize for loading and unloading during the specified period.
