Raipur: The fortnight-long dispute between cement dealers and freight companies was finally resolved. At the initiative of Transport Minister Mohammad Akbar, two cement companies have agreed to increase fares by 12 percent. Cement Dealers Association, and transport firms have thanked Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel and Transport Minister Akbar for resolving the impasse.

At the request of Transport Minister Mohammad Akbar, Shree Cement and Nuvoco have agreed to pay 12 percent freight to transporters. Other cement companies are also considering increasing fares. Transporters were seeking a 25 percent freight hike. However, the minister today held separate talks with the companies on the issue and persuaded them to pay 12 percent more fare.

After his return from Assam, Transport Minister Mohammad Akbar had convened with the entrepreneurs and transporters. The meeting, which lasted about four and a half hours and was attended by representatives of the Union of Transport along with the Cement Dealers Association from Vista, Nuvoco, UltraTech, ACC, Sree Cement, Ambuja, and JK Lakshadweep Cement.