Two associations working harmoniously with cement plants: Dy CM
Shillong, Nov 5: Even as the Meghalaya Commercial Truck Owners and Drivers Association (MCTODA) has decided to carry on their strike demanding revision of transportation rates, the state government has expressed its inability act on the demand citing lack of jurisdiction on the matter.
MCTODA has been demanding for uniform transportation rates for cement and clinkers outside Meghalaya’s borders.
Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Transport Sniawbhalang Dhar has clarified that while the government has notified rates within Meghalaya, it cannot extend these rates to other states, such as Assam.
Meanwhile, MCTODA has decided to sustain its strike, halting the transportation of cement and clinkers.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Dhar said some associations have been demanding the cement plants pay the rate notified by the government, which the plant has already complied with.
The minister also said that two associations from East Jaintia Hills and West Jaintia Hills are working harmoniously with the cement plants, having accepted the government-notified rates.
However, MCTODA has been demanding for same rate to be applied beyond Meghalaya’s borders, which is unfeasible as it falls outside the state’s jurisdiction, he said.
Dhar informed that the government-notified rates within Meghalaya: Rs 11 per MT per km for blacktopped roads, Rs 12 per MT per km for gravel topped roads, and Rs 14 per MT per km for kutcha roads. The cement plant has implemented these rates, he added.
When asked, the deputy chief minister said, “…the state government cannot notify rates on behalf of other states, such as Assam.”
Dhar extended an invitation to the associations to meet with him as Transport Minister, but stressed that the issue is a business matter between the cement plant and transporters.
“This is the business between cement plants and transporters and not government business,” he stated.
Referring to an incident at Mawryngkneng, Dhar confirmed that 2-3 individuals have been arrested, and the police will proceed with their investigation and take necessary action.
