Mizoram Commercial Vehicle Owners to Begin Indefinite Strike Over Fuel Price Hike
In response to a recent fuel price hike, commercial vehicle owners in Mizoram have announced an indefinite strike starting from October 14. The strike, led by the Mizoram Commercial Vehicle Union (MCVU), aims to protest against the government’s decision to increase fuel prices and demand an immediate reduction in petrol and diesel rates.
MCVU president PC Malsawma stated that despite repeated appeals, the state government, led by the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM), has failed to address their concerns. The prices of petrol and diesel were increased by ₹4 per litre each, effective from September 1, 2024. This hike has severely impacted vehicle owners, vegetable vendors, and the general public, making daily operations more costly.
“All commercial vehicles will cease operation from 6 AM on October 14,” Malsawma confirmed. He explained that the union’s leadership met with Chief Minister Lalduhoma and Taxation Minister Vanlalthlana to push for a price reduction. However, the government’s response was unsatisfactory, as the cabinet decided to maintain the current prices despite the union’s demands.
MCVU further alleges that the government is using the fuel price hike to generate additional revenue. According to their statement, the state plans to collect over ₹90 crore through the increased fuel rates. Petrol prices now stand at ₹99.24 per litre, and diesel at ₹88.02 per litre—some of the highest in the northeast region.
The government, in its defense, stated that the increased fuel prices are necessary to fund social infrastructure and road maintenance projects. Taxation Minister Vanlalthlana explained that a new levy of ₹2 per litre has been imposed on both petrol and diesel for these purposes, alongside an additional ₹2 per litre for road maintenance.
As Mizoram braces for the strike, it remains to be seen how long the standoff between the state government and commercial vehicle owners will last, and what impact this will have on the region’s transportation and economy.
