Haroli industry objects to 'harassment' by truckers

Our Correspondent

Advertisement

UNA, JANUARY 28

The Haroli Block Industries Association (HBIA), which represents the industry in the Bathu-Bathari-Tahliwal (BBT) industrial area of Una district, has expressed resentment against the alleged victimisation by truck operators and the failure of the authorities in checking the highhandedness and unethical practices of truck unions.

Addressing mediapersons here today, chairman of the association Rakesh Kaushal and general secretary Rohit Verma said about 125 units were functional in the BBT area, giving jobs to about 20,000 locals. These units were paying an annual GST to the tune of Rs 300 crore and the power bills of Rs 50 crore annually.

The members said the local truck unions were charging 30 to 40 per cent more freight from them as compared to transport available in the open market. This, he said, was adversely affecting the economic health of the enterprises.

Kaushal said at least four well-known industrial units, Nestle, Pritika Autocast, Sukhjit Starch and Cremica, had created infrastructures in Punjab and were ready to shift their units.

He said the association moved the High Court, seeking freedom from the clutches of the truck unions. He displayed a copy of the interim orders by the High Court, dated January 13, in which the court had directed the truck union at the Tahliwal industrial area not to obstruct their businesses and allow the movement of goods.

The court had also directed the Una DC and DSP, Haroli, to ensure the compliance of the orders. He said the rule of law should be implemented, which would not only boost the industries, but also bring in prosperity.