Truckers Block Access to Mare-Chicose: Testimony from One of Them

Truckers contracted on Friday gathered outside the Mare-Chicose landfill site, claiming they have halted their operations due to overdue payments, some dating back several years. Kenny Rajaratnam, one of the affected drivers, explains that multiple promises of payment were made by the company Sotravic, yet no actual payments have followed.

He also mentioned that the transporters were instructed to cease transporting wastewater, as the company has acquired its own trucks and placed subcontractors 'on hold.' Additionally, he lamented the absence of Sotravic representatives on-site to provide explanations, as access to the site remains blocked by the protesters.

In a statement issued this afternoon, the Ministry of Environment and Solid Waste Management indicated that they are closely monitoring the situation in collaboration with the operator. Negotiations are ongoing between Sotravic/Strata and the truckers to resume operations as quickly as possible.

The ministry also clarified that a complaint was filed at the Cent-Gaulettes police station due to the blockage of access roads to the landfill center. The management contract for the site was awarded to the joint venture of Sotravic/Strata on June 28, 2024.

Listen to the explanations from Kenny Rajaratnam, one of the affected drivers.