Fearing forceful diversion of vehicles to transport idols, some heavy vehicle operators have halted operations in the run up to Ganesha immersion.
The demand for transport vehicles of all sizes increases significantly in the days preceding immersion. The price for a vehicle also increases steeply, earning operators handsome money. However, in the past, there have been incidents involving hijacks and forceful diversions, which have made the transport industry cautious. “For three days now, we have not been operating our trailers. There have been incidents in the past when a vehicle was forcibly stopped and the driver threatened by gangs of men,” said Sai Baba of Telangana Steel Transporters’ Association, adding that such incidents have not occurred in the past few years.
Transport businessmen like Mr. Baba operate 40-feet trailers that carry large idols. An operator can earn anywhere between ₹15,000 and ₹20,000, if booked legitimately. However, in the absence of a booking from a known client, the transporters prefer to halt operations rather than risk a forceful diversion, he said.
“If the vehicle is forcefully diverted, it is very difficult to get it back immediately. In some cases, the gang that hijack would rent the vehicles out, making the issue complicated,” Mr. Baba added.
The Hyderabad Goods Transport Association is aware of the issue, but affirms there have been no such instances this year. However, its members pointed out that the government’s Transport Department allocates vehicles to ferry idols, much to the reluctance of transporters.
“When the department allocates vehicles, the rates are significantly lower than what a transporter can earn if the vehicle is hired directly. Though it’s not a forceful diversion, the government’s allocation has to be complied with as the vehicle’s papers have to be deposited,” an official of the association said.
