Daijiworld Media Network - Mapusa

Mapusa, Nov 15: Tensions are brewing in North Goa’s transport sector as the Pernem–Bardez Truck Owners Association has raised strong objections to what it describes as an “unchecked influx” of non-Goan truck operators into their trade. Representing more than 600 local truck owners, the association has warned of a large-scale protest if the government does not intervene immediately.

Association president Milind Shetye, along with senior members, met Pernem MLA Praveen Arlekar and Mandrem MLA Jit Arolkar, urging them to take swift action to protect the livelihood of local truckers. Their key demand includes imposing restrictions on migrant operators and scrapping the controversial “agreement vehicle registration” system with the RTO, which they say has severely undermined native Goan stakeholders.

“Migrants are taking advantage of the system and gradually taking over our business. We will not allow this injustice to continue. Our fight will reach its logical end,” Shetye asserted after the meeting.

Mandrem MLA Jit Arolkar assured the delegation that he would place the matter before the Chief Minister and push for an early resolution.

Meanwhile, the association has filed a police complaint against a non-Goan individual who allegedly created a nuisance and assaulted members outside its Dhargalim office after being denied access to the association’s logo a symbol reportedly reserved exclusively for Niz Goenkar truck owners.

With tempers rising and local truckers growing increasingly vocal, the issue is expected to gain significant political attention in the coming days.