Members of the Tamil Nadu Sugarcane Lorry Owners’ Federation have raised serious concerns over alleged overloading demands by private sugar mills in Erode district. The federation submitted a petition to the district administration on January 12, 2026, accusing mill operators of forcing lorry drivers to carry loads well beyond legal limits. According to the petition led by coordinators S. Yuvaraj, K. Moorthy, P. Ramasamy, P.C. Mani and C. Senthil, private mills are insisting that six‑wheeler lorries transport up to 20 tonnes of sugarcane, despite the legal limit being 12 tonnes per load. Drivers who refuse these directives reportedly face denial of work from the mills.
Lorry owners say the enforced overloading has resulted in frequent fines under the Motor Vehicles Act by police and transport officials, causing serious financial strain. They also allege that heavier loads contribute to vehicle breakdowns, tyre damage, and a higher risk of road accidents. The petition highlights that transport charges are being unilaterally decided by the mills. While the Tamil Nadu Civil Supplies Corporation Limited has fixed a minimum transport rate of ₹598 per tonne, lorry owners claim they are being paid as little as ₹101 per tonne. They are demanding a revised minimum rate of ₹201 per tonne.
Lorry owners also raised concerns about the use of non‑commercial tractors for sugarcane transportation, which they say undermines their livelihood. They have urged the district administration to strictly enforce load regulations, ensure fair transport rates, and guarantee timely payment of dues. The federation has warned that if their demands are not met, they may be forced to stage protests and halt sugarcane transportation in the region starting February 1, 2026.
