Mumbai: Mathadi workers’ stir hits transport, supply chains

The APMC Market in Navi Mumbai deserted on Friday. Pic/PTI

Over 2,500 trucks stranded and a loss of Rs 1 crore are approximate losses suffered by the transport industry due to Friday's strike by Mathadi workers at the wholesale markets in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region in support of the ongoing Maratha reservation stir. The strike, which led to the complete halt of unloading operations at the Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) wholesale markets of onion, potato, food grains, masala, and dry fruits, at Navi Mumbai, has severe repercussions on the transport industry and the overall supply chain.

"Around 4000 trucks arrive daily at Vashi wholesale markets for unloading, of which 2,500 were left stranded due to the strike. This unfortunate situation translates into a substantial direct loss to the transport industry, estimated at Rs 1 crore per day, as each of these trucks contributes significantly to the business ecosystem. This strike has dealt a crippling blow to the transport industry, which is already facing numerous challenges," said Bal Malkit Singh, Chairman, Core Committee of All-India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC). Singh said the ripple effect of this loss extended to the wider supply chain, negatively impacting businesses across the board.

"The All-India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC) expressed its deep concern and disappointment over the day-long Mathadi workers strike in support of Maratha reservation," he said.