Islamabad traders have announced protests across the city on Thursday, October 8. They have warned that the protests could turn into a shutter-down strike if their demands are not accepted.
The announcement was made by All Pakistan Anjuman-e-Tajiran leader Ajmal Baloch during a press conference at the National Press Club in Islamabad.
The traders are protesting against high electricity prices, taxation policies and what they called pressure from government departments.
What is the protest plan?
Shops across Islamabad will remain closed for two hours on Thursday. The closure will take place from 3 PM to 5 PM.
Traders will also hold protests outside their respective markets. The main demonstration will take place at Aabpara Chowk.
The protest will be held despite Section 144 being in place in Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
Traders have warned that they could start a shutter-down strike if their demands are not met. They have also threatened to march towards the Prime Minister’s House.
What are the traders demanding?
Ajmal Baloch criticised the high cost of electricity. He said expensive power has created a major burden for businesses.
He also raised concerns about the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and its tax system. He complained about tax notices and repeated visits to government offices.
The traders have called for more transparency in the FBR and other government departments. They want affordable electricity, better security and proper parking facilities.
Baloch also suggested a simple tax payment system through mobile phones. He said this could reduce the need for traders to visit government offices again and again.
What did traders say about shopping bags?
Baloch also spoke about restrictions on shopping bags. He said authorities should first take action against factories making banned bags and stop their smuggling.
He called on the government to provide an affordable and practical alternative to shopping bags.
