Aizawl: Commercial vehicle owners in Mizoram have announced an indefinite strike starting October 14, protesting against the recent hike in fuel prices.
The strike, organized by the Mizoram Commercial Vehicle Union (MCVU), comes after repeated appeals to the state government to reduce the prices of petrol and diesel were not addressed.
MCVU president PC Malsawma expressed frustration, stating that despite multiple meetings with Chief Minister Lalduhoma and Taxation Minister Vanlalthlana, the government decided to maintain the current fuel prices, which were increased by Rs 4 per litre on September 1. Malsawma said all commercial vehicles would halt operations from 6 am on October 14.
The price hike has raised petrol prices to Rs 99.24 per litre and diesel to Rs 88.02 per litre, the highest in the northeastern region. The state government increased VAT on petrol and diesel and introduced new levies for social infrastructure and road maintenance. While the government claims the hike is for public welfare, the MCVU argues it has burdened vehicle owners and the general public.
The strike is expected to impact transportation services across Mizoram until the government addresses the union’s demands.
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