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Maharashtra transport unions will strike on March 5, demanding e-challan reforms, reduced taxes and tolls, and better infrastructure.
The Maharashtra transport strike is expected to affect a wide range of services, including school buses, private buses, trucks, tempos, taxis and tankers. (PTI/File)
Transport unions across Maharashtra have called for a statewide strike on March 5, demanding reforms to the e-challan system, a reduction in excessive taxes and tolls, and stricter verification of fines via apps and more.
The strike has been called by the Maharashtra Transporters Action Committee (M-TAC) — a representative of truck operators, bus associations, taxi unions, tempo drivers and auto-rickshaw groups.
With thousands of commercial vehicles linked to the network, the strike aims at voicing concerns about problems related to everyday commuting, financial burden on drivers, and logistics.
WHY ARE TRANSPORT UNIONS ON STRIKE?
At the centre of the strike is the e-challan traffic enforcement system, which the transport union leaders say has become a burden for drivers.
According to union leaders, automated traffic fines are often issued without sufficient clarity. Many argue that the system focuses on penalising the vehicle owners, rather than drivers, who are actually responsible for violations.
Transport union leaders note the strike reflects wider concerns revolving around regulatory pressure on commercial vehicles.
Transporters say “No Entry” restrictions for goods vehicles in city areas are often introduced without consultation, prompting disruptions to cargo movements.
Another long-standing demand is the development of improved infrastructure for commercial vehicles, particularly designated parking spaces, which transporters say remain insufficient in most cities.
WHY TOLLS REMAIN A CONCERN?
Transport operators argue that in addition to central and state levies, they’re required to pay additional toll charges for Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) roads, which adds to their financial burden.
According to an Indian Express report, Nitin Pawar highlighted that taxes on employee transport vehicles in Maharashtra are among the highest in the country, with air-conditioned vehicles taxed at Rs 6,500 per seat per year.
POSSIBLE IMPACTS OF THE STRIKE
The strikes could affect daily commuting and goods transport, particularly in major cities like Mumbai and Pune.
Meanwhile, union leaders assured that there would be no disruption to emergency services.
WHAT ARE THE DEMANDS?
Demands made by transport unions include –
- Reforms to the e-challan system
- Reduction in tolls/taxes
- Verification of fines via traffic apps
Transport union leaders have warned disruptions could go beyond March 5, if the concerns remain unaddressed.
March 05, 2026, 10:36 IST
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