Pics: Abhijith N Kolpe

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (ANK)

Mangaluru, Jun 1: The situation of lorry drivers have turned miserable due to the lockdown imposed in the state.

President of the State Commercial Vehicle Owners Association, Mangaluru, Sridhar Poojary demanded the state government give compensation similar to the package announced for taxi and auto drivers. The situation has turned worse as many of our drivers are struck in Kulai waiting for the lorries to ferry goods."

"It has been difficult even to procure food as hotels around are closed. Some drivers are cooking on their own and are living in the lorries. Drivers have come from other districts including Bengaluru, Mysuru, Hubli and have been stuck here for a week, said Sridhar Poojary.

‘Nearly 30 lorries are stuck in Kulai. Government should consider our request as we also face pressure to pay EMIs, and house rent. At least relaxation to pay EMI for three months will help us a lot. Government should take measures to fulfil our demands," said Sridhar Poojary.  

A driver named Umesh who has been in Mangaluru for a week said, "I came from Bengaluru carrying batteries to Mangaluru in my lorries. But I cannot go back as there no hire for our lorry."