Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami on Saturday directed State Transport Corporations (STC) to move agricultural produce free of cost by government buses till the lorry strike comes to an end.
The All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC) has been on strike from Friday to press for demands including removal of daily pricing mechanism for diesel, toll collection and reduction in insurance premium.
“A circular, based on the Chief Minister’s direction, was sent to the heads of all transport corporations. The produce has to be transported without causing inconvenience to the other commuters,” said an official.
He said respective transport corporations will decide on how to allocate space for the consignment based on the physical condition of the buses.
“Similar measures were taken earlier when there was full-fledge strike in the State,” added the official.
P. Sukumar, treasurer, Koyambedu Fruits, Vegetables and Flowers Traders Welfare Association, said vegetable trucks were not yet part of strike. “Trucks supplying milk, water, vegetables, fruits and flower have not joined the strike. If they do, we will chart out plans to ensure supply,” he said.
