Maharashtra: Transporters Threaten Statewide Strike from July 2 Over e-Challan Penalties
Pune, 25th June 2025: In a strong protest against what they allege is financial exploitation through excessive e-challan fines, all major transporter organizations in Maharashtra have announced an indefinite statewide strike starting July 2. The decision was made during a joint meeting of transporters, who have warned of a complete ‘Chakka Jam’ (transport shutdown) if their demands are not met.
The transport bodies have accused the government of ignoring the issues faced by goods and passenger vehicle drivers, especially regarding arbitrary and excessive e-challan fines, delays in complaint redressal, and restrictive entry rules in cities.
Key Demands by Transporters:
Immediate halt to forced e-challan recovery
Waiver of unjustly levied fines
Scrapping the mandatory cleaner requirement
Revisiting ‘no entry’ zones and time restrictions for commercial vehicles
Time-bound redressal of e-challan-related grievances
The meeting was attended by several key leaders of transport organizations, including:
Dr. Baba Shinde, President, Maharashtra State Vehicle Owners and Representatives Association
Uday Barge, Convener, Transporter Rescue Action Committee
Malki Bal and Prakash Gawli from the All India Motor Transport Congress
Transport representatives from across the state supported the strike call and said that unless urgent action is taken, the entire state’s transport system will come to a halt, severely affecting supply chains, goods movement, and public transport.
Hunger Strike Begins at Azad Maidan
Ahead of the strike, members of the Vikas Swarajya Party and Transporter Rescue Action Committee have launched a hunger strike at Azad Maidan, Mumbai, to draw attention to their long-standing issues.
“The government is treating drivers like criminals. e-Challans are being issued indiscriminately, without verification or recourse. We’ve tried every peaceful means of dialogue. Now, we’re left with no option but to stop our vehicles,” said Dr. Baba Shinde.
“Drivers are being penalized for minor or outdated infractions, and fines pile up without any resolution mechanism,” added Uday Barge.
Implications of the July 2 Strike
If the strike goes ahead, it is likely to disrupt transport of goods, intercity bus services, and logistics operations across Maharashtra. With the monsoon already affecting road conditions, the transporters’ protest could further compound delivery delays and supply shortages.
The transport associations have appealed to the state government to immediately open dialogue and take concrete steps to address their demands to avoid escalation.
