Transport services across Maharashtra were disrupted after transport operators launched a statewide “chakka jam” protest.
During the agitation, several types of vehicles including school buses, trucks, taxis, and other commercial vehicles stopped operating for some time.
The protest was organized to oppose what transport unions describe as excessive and unfair electronic traffic fines (e-challans).
The disruption raised concerns about daily travel in major cities like Mumbai and Pune.
Why Transport Operators Are Protesting
The protest is being led by the Maharashtra Transport Action Committee (M-TAC), which represents several transport unions across the state.
According to the group, the automated e-challan system is issuing a large number of fines, sometimes even for small or disputed traffic violations.
Transport operators claim that many drivers are receiving duplicate or incorrect penalties, and that the system does not provide an easy way to challenge or clarify these fines.
As a result, drivers and vehicle owners say they are facing a huge financial burden.
Industry representatives estimate that traffic fines worth thousands of crores of rupees have accumulated through the system.
Which Vehicles Were Affected
The protest affected many types of transport services across the state.
These included:
Trucks and cargo vehicles
School buses and private buses
Taxis and app-based cabs
Autorickshaws and tempos
Tankers and other commercial carriers
Transport unions warned that if the issue is not resolved, many of these services could stay off the roads for longer, which could affect logistics and daily commuting.
Protests Held Across the State
Demonstrations were organized in several locations, including Azad Maidan and outside Regional Transport Office (RTO) premises in multiple districts.
Protesters demanded changes to the current e-challan system and asked the government to provide written assurances about reforms.
Authorities also set up special monitoring and control rooms at RTO offices to keep an eye on the situation and prevent law-and-order issues during the protests.
Indefinite Strike Put on Hold
Transport unions had earlier warned that the protest could turn into an indefinite statewide strike starting at midnight, which would have severely affected passenger and goods transport.
However, after discussions with the government, the unions temporarily postponed the indefinite strike for one week.
Even so, the protest still caused disruptions in several cities during the day.
What Transporters Want
Transport unions are demanding several changes to the system, including:
Review or cancellation of incorrect e-challans
A clear and easy appeal process for penalties
Relaxation of rules that link unpaid fines to vehicle permits
Reduction in other costs such as taxes and toll charges
If negotiations with the government fail, unions have warned that they may resume the protest, which could again affect transport services across Maharashtra.
