Tanker drivers go on strike demanding security

The fuel scarcity gripping the nation was further worsened after drivers of tankers carrying fuel launched strike demanding security after one of the Kathmandu-bound tanker was 'seized' by irate group of people of Gorkha district and forced it to go to their district on Thursday night.

The group seized the tanker from Mugling and forced it to go to Gorkha accusing that the government was giving priority to only big cities for fuel supply.

Although the tanker was released after understanding with the administration, the drivers have now imposed strike.

Consequently, the state-owned Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) was unable to distribute fuel on Friday.

The drivers were further enraged after three tankers were vandalised in Bara on Thursday night.

Meanwhile, Kantipur daily reports that a pro-Hindu Indian outfit called Seema Jagaran Manch has stopped cross border movement in Parsa district expressing 'solidarity' with Madhes agitation. The Manch has vowed to stop any vehicle carrying fuel or foodstuff towards Nepal. nepalnews.com sd Feb 23 08