As of 6 AM (IST) this morning, the All-India Motor Transport Congress, led by Chairman Bal Malkit Singh, commenced an indefinite strike as a means of protesting rising diesel costs, heightened taxes with decreased exemptions and the current system for tendering port cargo. Initial reports indicate that over 80% of the country’s truck capacity is participating in the strikes, with that percentage expected to increase as the strike continues.

The strike has already caused significant cargo backlogs and will lead to numerous supply chain disruptions across all of India if left unaddressed. Despite the stoppage of service for the majority of goods, unions and truckers have agreed to transport commodities deemed to be essential (primarily food, water and medical supplies).

Key members of the All-India Motor Transport Congress met with the Union Transport Minister, Nitin Gadkari, and Finance Minister, Piyush Goyal, earlier today but talks have yet to produce any solutions. More meetings are on the calendar, but for now the strike only seems to be gaining momentum and favor amongst truckers.

Shapiro will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.