Mangaluru: Truck operators, responsible for transporting coal from New Mangalore Port to various destinations, have chosen to end their indefinite strike following a decision to raise freight charges by an additional Rs 150 by the transportation companies.

For several years, the trucking unions have been advocating for an increase in freight charges. In a meeting held on Friday, chaired by Deputy Commissioner Mullai Muhilan and senior officials, the transportation companies agreed to this demand.

Sushanth Shetty, the president of the Dakshina Kannada Truck Owners’ Association, explained, "Truck operators have been persistently requesting an elevation in freight charges over the past few years. Following the announcement of the strike, the transportation companies committed to a Rs 100 increase. However, during the meeting on Friday, it was decided to raise it by Rs 150. They have assured its implementation within three days. Consequently, the protest has been called off."

Shetty further mentioned that the minimum freight charges per tonne to Koppal were previously Rs 1050 and to Ballari, Rs 1,100. Now, these rates have been raised by Rs 150.