Mysuru: Even as the lorry operators across the country started their two-day strike from today, the Mysuru District Lorry Owners Federation has decided to take part in the strike two days later. However, they are supporting it from outside.

B. Kodandaramu, President of District Lorry Owners Federation, speaking to Star of Mysore, here this morning, said, “We cannot abruptly stop the lorries from plying. Hence, we will join the strike two days later after announcing it.”

Asked the reasons for the strike, he said that toll collection is still going on in 150 roads across the country, though the term to collect it had ended. Not only this, when the lorries pass through bypass roads, the tolls are collected there also.

The government had promised that after GST is introduced the check posts will be removed.  However, they are still collecting the tolls and harassing us. With the introduction of GST, the cost of spare parts are escalating and life is becoming very difficult for the lorry owners, said Kodandaramu.

There are nearly 3,500 lorries carrying building materials like sand, jelly stones, cement, fruits, vegetables and other items. However, the lorries carrying essential commodities like milk, medicines and vegetables will not be stopped, he added.