Mon Nov 24 13:23:18 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewritten version as a news article:

Summary:

The State Lorry Owners Federation of Tamil Nadu (SLOFT) is protesting a proposed significant increase in fitness certificate fees for vehicles, recently announced by the Union Ministry of Road Transport. SLOFT argues that the increased fees will disproportionately affect lorry owners, particularly those with older vehicles used to transport essential goods, potentially forcing them out of business due to already rising costs of operation. They are urging the Ministry to withdraw the proposed fee hike.

News Article:

Tamil Nadu Lorry Owners Decry Proposed Fitness Certificate Fee Hike

Salem, India – The State Lorry Owners Federation of Tamil Nadu (SLOFT) is demanding the Union Ministry of Road Transport to withdraw a proposed hike in fitness certificate fees for vehicles, warning of dire consequences for the industry.

The Union Ministry announced the proposed fee increases on November 11th, with fees potentially rising to ₹1,000 for vehicles 10-13 years old, ₹5,000 for vehicles 13-15 years old, and a hefty ₹25,000 for vehicles 15-20 years old.

SLOFT President C. Dhanaraj expressed strong opposition, stating the increased fees would severely impact lorry owners, especially those operating multiple vehicles. He emphasized that many older lorries are crucial for transporting essential commodities like rice and vegetables, and the added financial burden could force owners out of the industry, already struggling with high toll costs, diesel prices, and insurance premiums, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This additional burden will force them to leave the transport industry” Mr. Dhanaraj added, “Post the COVID-19 pandemic, most of the industries have been affected and it has become difficult to get loads for lorries”

SLOFT has formally urged the Union Ministry to reconsider the fee hike, arguing it will significantly impact the livelihoods of lorry owners across Tamil Nadu. The Union Ministry of Road Transport is currently seeking public input regarding the guidelines.

Read More