Chennai Metrowater Tanker Lorry Contractors Association plans to go on strike from June 5 citing a delay in issuing work order for operating mobile water supply trips in the city.

The water agency has now hired nearly 450 vehicles to operate nearly 3,940 daily trips both for street supply and on payment. P.S.Sundaram, the association’s president said at present, about 450 vehicles have been hired for mobile water supply across the city.

The work orders are renewed for three years. However, there has been a delay in issuing new work orders since the previous contract period, which ended in February last year. Though tenders were called for in November last year, fresh work orders are yet to be given, he said.

S. Kesavaram, the association’s secretary, said nearly 350 new vehicles, which were less than five years old as per the conditions laid by Metrowater, have been waiting to be operated for a year now. Most of the vehicles were 2024 models.

Members noted that court disputes between some of the lorry owners and the water agency on the age of vehicles to be used for operation also delayed the process. Lorry operators faced various challenges and were unable to pay their dues. Though negotiation meeting on rates was completed three weeks ago, they were waiting for work orders.

Officials of the Metrowater said court proceedings had delayed the process for nearly five months and tender was called for as per court direction. Conditions for new vehicles were laid to adhere to safety and pollution norms. Work orders would be issued in a few days.