Pampore: In a show of dissent, the Association of Tanker Drivers gathered at the entrance of the Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) Depot in Sempora, Srinagar, on Tuesday, voicing their opposition to the recently enacted hit-and-run accident law.
Eyewitnesses informed Kashmir Reader that a substantial number of tanker drivers congregated at the BPCL Sempora entrance to protest the new penal law governing hit-and-run road accident cases. The drivers passionately chanted slogans, demanding a repeal of the law.
As per the new regulations, hit-and-run incidents can now attract a severe penalty, including a 10-year jail term and a fine of Rs 7 lakh.
During the protest, drivers articulated their concerns, highlighting the dedicated service they provided, particularly during the challenging period of the Covid-19 pandemic. They played a crucial role in transporting essential commodities across the nation, the drivers claimed.
Expressing the collective sentiment, a tanker driver stated that the protest is not aimed at any specific entity, be it the government or the depot, but rather against the recently passed law, which they believe poses a significant threat to their livelihood.
The drivers argued that the hefty fines outlined in the new law, such as Rs 10 lakh, make it economically unviable for them to continue driving others’ vehicles. They fear the potential consequences, including a 10-year jail term, which could leave their families in financial distress.
The strike is set to persist until their demands are met, emphasizing the repeal of the law they find unjust. The drivers, largely belonging to the middle class, express their inability to bear the financial burden imposed by the law.
One driver from the Jammu division stressed that the protest is a response to the difficulties imposed by the law. They contend that the penalties, combined with the risk of accidents, could adversely affect their families, reliant on their earnings.
In an appeal to petrol pump owners, the drivers requested them not to let their pumps run dry and to reserve some fuel for ambulances and other emergency services. They stand firm on their decision not to resume driving until the contested law is withdrawn.

BILAL HABIB