The management of Sirpur Paper Mill in Kagaznagar has criticized a strike by truck operators who are demanding an increase in transportation charges.
Speaking to the media, MS Giri, the General Manager of Sirpur Paper Mill, explained that the mill was revived in 2018 after being non-operational for many years. An investment of ₹971 crore was made to bring the mill back to life, and now over 2,500 families depend on it for their livelihood. He warned that if the strike continues, the mill could face big losses as some business partners may cancel their orders.
Giri expressed his disappointment over the strike, calling it painful and unjustified, especially since the mill provides jobs to so many families. He pointed out that truck operators, who are responsible for transporting paper to different parts of the country, have halted 37 trucks for nearly 12 days in front of their association office, demanding higher transport fees.
The representatives of the truck operators argue that the mill owners are paying transport fees that are already higher than the market rate and higher than what companies like ITC pay. Giri also revealed that the agreements between the truck operators and the mill management had been made in the presence of government officials, who are now trying to mediate the situation.
He further expressed concern that if the issue is not resolved, the mill might be forced to shut down, which would negatively affect the workers and their families.
