Pakistan’s transport sector is preparing for a nationwide strike from August 8 (tomorrow). Transporters have warned that unresolved issues over fuel pricing, taxation, fines, and policies have pushed the industry to the brink. The strike has been jointly announced by the Pakistan Mini Mazda Association and the All Pakistan Goods Transport Owners Association.
The transporters said the planned shutdown could severely disrupt Pakistan’s import and export operations. It will affect supply chains, businesses, and the movement of goods nationwide. They urged the government to resolve the issues before the strike begins through dialogue.
In a joint press conference, Pakistan Mini Mazda Association Central President Tanveer Jatt criticized the government’s policy of revising petroleum prices on a daily basis. He demanded that fuel prices instead be adjusted monthly to provide stability for transport operators. He also called for relief from toll taxes and what he described as unjust fines imposed on transporters.
Further, Jatt stated that the nationwide strike would begin on August 8 unless authorities accepted the demands of the transporters.
Additionally, all Pakistan Goods Transport Owners Association President Chaudhry Owais Gujjar demanded strict implementation of axle-load regulations in accordance with the law while alleging that corruption had become widespread. He claimed transporters pay billions of rupees annually in toll taxes but receive few benefits in return.
Gujjar further accused officials from the Regional Transport Authority Secretariat and the Highway Patrol Police of harassing transport operators on the roads. He argued that transporters continue to face unnecessary pressure despite making financial contributions through taxes and tolls.
Moreover, transport leader Khalid Arain blamed government policies for forcing transporters toward industrial action. He said transport operators in many other countries receive facilities and support, whereas Pakistani transporters continue to work under difficult conditions.
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