Maharashtra has officially resolved a long-standing issue related to penalties imposed on Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMVs) for carrying cleaners on board.
An official notification was issued in the connection with the move, bringing relief to the transporters in state.
The state transport fraternity on Friday welcomed Maharashtra government`s decision.
The decision marks the end of a prolonged dispute that had affected commercial vehicle operators for several years, an official statement by the All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC) said.
Transporters faced repeated fines
Earlier, HMV and commercial transport operators were being fined Rs 1,500 per day in several cases for carrying cleaners in vehicles. Industry stakeholders said that the presence of cleaners is essential for long-distance transport operations.
The repeated traffic challans had led to financial stress and widespread concern within the transport sector, the AIMTC stated.
Stakeholder engagement and representations
The issue was taken up through multiple representations and meetings with senior government officials. Discussions were held with key authorities in the Maharashtra Transport Department, along with inputs from the Law and Judiciary and Home Departments due to legal interpretations involved, it said, adding that sustained engagement from transport associations played a key role in resolving the matter.
Key government officials involved
The resolution followed consultations with several senior officials, including representatives from the transport department and state leadership. Continuous follow-ups by stakeholders helped move the matter forward through different administrative levels, the statement said.
Transport leaders have welcomed the move, calling it a major relief for the industry. According to representatives, the decision will help reduce unnecessary penalties and improve operational efficiency for truck operators.
A welcome move
Bal Malkit Singh, a transport representative, said the resolution was a collective victory for the industry. He added that it would save significant costs annually and reduce mental stress for drivers and operators.
