Tanker drivers, NOC reach agreement; fuel transport to resume today

KATHMANDU: The Nepal Petroleum Tanker Drivers’ Union has decided to call off its strike.

The union reached an agreement with the Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) following discussions at the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Supplies on Monday.

The talks, coordinated by Commerce and Supplies Secretary Dinesh Kumar Ghimire, concluded with the formation of a committee to address the union’s demands.

This committee has been tasked with studying the issues and submitting a report within 15 days.

Chandika Bhatta, the Executive Director of NOC, stated that based on the committee’s report, NOC will resolve the problems.

“The talks were positive. The union has agreed to end the strike and resume fuel transport starting today,” Bhatta said.

However, the draft of the agreement is still being prepared, according to the Nepal Oil Corporation National Employees’ Union, which participated in the talks. The drivers and co-drivers had halted fuel transport from the Thankot depot since Sunday, demanding salary adjustments, risk allowances, and other benefits in accordance with the Labor Act.