In absence of a registered Association, truckers in Phuentshogling feel that solving their work related problems of any sort is not convenient. A Truckers’ Association, they said, has become a need of the hour.
They have already called forth the participation of other truckers across the country for the consultative meeting on forming an Association.
The issue of forming an Association has been revolving around the truckers for quite some time now. Earlier, two attempts were made to form an Association but without any proper follow up, it failed.
This time, however, with increased number of truckers in the country, associated problems have also increased.
One of the truck drivers, Chador Namgay, feels that such association has become more of a necessity than a choice now.
“If we form an Association, then in case the government has any issues to be resolved or announcements to be made, they can do so through the Association. It will be more systematic. Moreover, one objective for forming an Association is to work together and pledge to abide by the rules set forth by the Road Safety and Transport Authority,” he says.
Meanwhile, most of the truck drivers are in support of forming an Association. With a registered Association, they said, the government, people and truckers alike will have a common and valid platform to report and resolve any problem.
Another truck driver, Dorji Wangchuk says, “If we have an Association, then they will have a set of rules as per the law. They can control overloading and also fix rates reasonably and lawfully. This will be beneficial for both parties. Moreover, it will make things easier for those who choose our line of profession in times to come.”
For now, the consultative meeting has been scheduled for August 17, in Phuentshogling. If the majority agrees, they will immediately follow up with the registration procedures along with election of the Association’s chairman and dzongkhag representatives.
In fact, they have already prioritised the issues to be forwarded once the Association is formally registered.
Chador Namgay says the main problem they are tackling is ever increasing fuel price and minimal transportation charges.
“So once our Association is legally registered, our first priority is to work as per the Road Safety and Transport Act and then put up a petition to the relevant agencies to revise the transportation charges against the rising fuel prices,” says Chador.
As per the Civil Society Organizations Act of Bhutan, a Bhutanese citizen, evidenced by a citizenship card may establish a Civil Society Organization by submitting the required documents and declaring certain mandatory information about the applicant.
