Changing cogs

It is interesting to see how the CV industry is changing gears. Preference for value trucks is growing. They are safer and comfortable than the economy trucks ever were. Despite simplification of tax returns, there are transporters who continue to look at GST as a speed hump. They seem to be of the opinion that it has provided little respite to them, and even when it comes to long haul assignments. There is also a section of transporters who are of the opinion that GST has pushed them to better organise their business; has helped them to become an organised player. Paperwork is where the transporters seem to have a common opinion that it is too rigorous. If the need to increase efficiency is felt by transporters in a post GST scenario, they are the ones who are purchasing higher tonnage CVs. Rated payload is the buzzword for long-haul transporters. Overloading is however said to be practiced by those who operate within states, and continues to pose a big safety issue. Greasing the palms is what enables such a practice I am told. The good news is the entry of professional international logistics companies in India. The Indian logistics scene will never be the same again.

Nilesh Asthana, Goregaon