IMPHAL : Drivers transporting liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), petrol and diesel along the national highway 37 (Imphal-Silchar via Jiribam) in Manipur have initiated an indefinite “steering wheel down” strike starting Tuesday (June 18).

The drivers are demanding increased security for their fully loaded vehicles along NH-37, which is crucial for Manipur state.

 In a meeting held at Khunou Community Hall in Jiribam district of Manipur on Tuesday (June 18), the drivers resolved to continue their agitation until the government reaches an agreement with the Kuki Women’s Union.

The strike was sparked by Kuki women blocking petroleum product-carrying vehicles at Tatbung village in Tamenglong district of Manipur, near Jiribam town, on Monday (June 17).

The meeting was organized by the All Manipur Petroleum Products Transporters’ Association (AMPPTA) and the All Manipur Petroleum Products Drivers’ Association (AMPPDA). The protesting drivers highlighted the dangers and vulnerabilities they face, urging the Manipur government to bolster security for trucks traveling along the national highways.

Since June 06, numerous petroleum vehicles and bullet tankers have been stranded at the Jiribam borders due to escalating violence and lack of security measures. Over 250 vehicles carrying petroleum products are currently stranded in Jiribam district of Manipur, facing threats from armed miscreants and blockades by Kuki women.

Meanwhile, a convoy of 74 goods-laden trucks, escorted by the central reserve police force (CRPF), left Jiribam for Imphal on NH-37 on Tuesday (June 18), leaving the petroleum transport vehicles behind.

The current agitation follows a violent incident on April 16, when armed men in combat fatigues fired at trucks on NH-37, injuring a driver and causing LPG, petrol, and diesel to leak onto roadside drains.The transportation of vehicles resumed on April 23, after Manipur government assurances, but the recent escalation of violence has reignited security concerns among drivers.