Sat Apr 05 16:21:06 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka Lorry Owners Threaten Indefinite Strike Over Fuel, Toll Hikes

**Bengaluru, April 5, 2025** – The Federation of Karnataka State Lorry Owners’ Association has issued an ultimatum to the state government, threatening an indefinite strike beginning April 15th if recent fuel and toll price increases are not reversed.

Association President G.R. Shanmugappa announced the strike at a press conference on Saturday. He cited a ₹2 per litre diesel price hike on April 1st, following a ₹3 per litre increase in June 2024, as the catalyst for the action. This sudden increase, he argued, is placing an unsustainable burden on the transport sector.

Shanmugappa further highlighted the potential loss of state revenue due to the price hikes. He explained that Karnataka previously benefited from out-of-state trucks refuelling within the state due to lower diesel prices. The recent increases, however, are likely to drive this business to neighboring states.

Adding to the lorry owners’ grievances are the toll fees levied on state highways. Shanmugappa pointed out that Karnataka is unique in charging tolls on state highways, despite truckers already paying road taxes and a diesel cess, unlike other states in India. He also criticized the increase in Fitness Certificate fees to ₹15,000.

The association demands the immediate withdrawal of all the price hikes, warning of significant disruption if the government fails to comply before April 14th.

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