New Delhi: The nationwide indefinite strike by truckers, demanding stable fuel prices and fewer levies, entered the third day on April 16 amidst reports of a surge in prices of fruits and vegetables in some states.

The protest, called by All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC), the largest truckers' union with 2.7 million vehicles in its fold, has seen fruits and vegetables prices go up in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Mumbai.

However, supplies have so far not been affected as smaller lorries have pitched in for the striking truckers.

Trade and industry officials said the strike would affect supplies in a day or two.

AIMTC secretary general J M Saksena indicated that the striking unions might meet Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways B C Khanduri on April 16 in a bid to resolve the crisis.

"We are open (to meeting him). He is returning today and let us see if we are called for talks," he told reporters in New Delhi.

It is estimated that the strike could cost businesses worth Rs 20,000 crore a day while truckers might lose Rs 1500 crore daily.

The union's demands include putting an end to frequent hike in diesel prices, immunity from a planned Value Added Tax (VAT), repeal of an order to scrap 15-year- old trucks and fixing of minimum freight rates.

PTI