Lorry owners call off strike in Karnataka

Bangalore, Jan 13: Lorry owners in Karnataka today called off their strike after a meeting with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah but sand transporters would continue with the stir till the government's final decision on the permit issue.

Siddaramaiah held a meeting of lorry owners and agents associations in a bid to end the state-wide transport strike launched on the midnight of Saturday in support of sand transporters, who are on strike for the last 24 days in protest against the state government's new sand policy.

The meeting was attended by Home Minister K J George, Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy and representatives of the Federation of Karnataka Lorry Owners' and Agents Association.

Sand transporters are seeking permits for sand transportation besides, asking government for withdrawal of criminal cases booked against them.

The strike saw an escalation since Saturday midnight after goods transporters moving petroleum products and food grains, tourist taxis, maxi cabs and cabs transporting employees to companies joined the strike in solidarity.

Government maintains that sand mining is posing environmental concerns and it cannot permit unlimited sand extraction.

The federation is also demanding a comprehensive policy to ensure "legal transportation of sand", besides monthly permits to truck operators so that sand transported legally is not seized and illegal transportation is checked.

After meeting the Chief Minister, Federation of Karnataka State Lorry Owners and Agents Association President G R Shanmugappa told PTI: "CM has agreed to most of our demands barring permit issue,so we have decided to call off the strike by commercial vehicles except those transporting sand and construction materials."

"Strike by transporters ferrying sand and other construction material will continue as government has asked for one week time to come out with a decision on permit; we will continue unless the final verdict is out," he added.

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Warning! Cancer-causing chemicals found in bakery products, especially cakes in Karnataka

News Network

October 3,2024

Bengaluru: The Karnataka Food Safety and Quality Department has issued an urgent warning following the discovery of potentially cancer-causing chemicals in cakes sold by certain bakeries across the state.

Recent tests conducted by the department revealed that some cake samples, particularly those with vibrant colors, contain harmful synthetic coloring agents such as Allura Red, a substance known to pose health risks. The findings have raised concerns about the use of artificial colors in bakery products, especially given their potential link to cancer and other serious health conditions.

"We routinely test various food products, and this time, our officials noticed unusually dark-colored cakes on the market," said Srinivas K, Commissioner of Food Safety for Karnataka. "Upon testing, we found that a few cakes contained Allura Red, a synthetic dye associated with health risks."

The use of artificial colors, especially in popular cakes like red velvet and pineapple varieties, is widespread as it attracts customers, particularly children. However, many bakers prefer using natural, safer alternatives, while some opt for synthetic dyes to enhance the cake's visual appeal.

"Most bakeries use permissible, natural colors that are safe for consumption. Unfortunately, a few are resorting to synthetic dyes just to make their cakes more attractive," said a bakery owner from Electronic City, speaking anonymously.

Medical experts are warning that consuming synthetic colors can lead to numerous health issues, including asthma and allergic reactions.

"Some of these artificial dyes are carcinogenic, and prolonged exposure could have serious consequences, especially for children and young adults," cautioned Dr. Vandana G, a private medical practitioner.

While the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) confirms that only a limited number of samples tested positive for harmful colors, legal action is being taken against the violators.

"There is no need for widespread panic or halting production. We are closely monitoring the situation, and only a few bakeries were found to be non-compliant. Rest assured, appropriate legal measures are underway," assured an FSSAI official.

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