A protest by the All Pakistan Goods Transporters Alliance has disrupted supply chains across the country. The protest has severely impacted the transport of cargo and food supplies nationwide.
Petroleum dealers issue 72-hour deadline
Petroleum dealers have also issued a 72-hour deadline to the government following the transporters protest. The dealers announced that petrol stations across the country will remain closed from 6 am on August 15.
The goods transporters launched their strike last week to protest what they describe as unfair taxation, rising operational costs and a lack of implementation of transport policies. The strike has disrupted the supply of goods in several cities. People are concerned about shortages and price hikes.
Government response
Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan assured a delegation of transporters that the government is serious about resolving the matter and will continue dialogue with them. However, no timeline was given for the next round of talks.
The transporters stated that they remain ready for further negotiations but will only end the protest once they see steps and approval of their demands.
Previously, according to a private TV news channel, the All Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance and the government reached an initial agreement on several issues.
According to the reports, the two sides have agreed in principle not to increase toll taxes for one year. They have also decided to reduce the recent increase in toll taxes.
Are toll taxes increasing in Pakistan?
Transporters also said that an agreement has been reached on not increasing petroleum prices for one week or 15 days.
A statement on the talks between Communications Minister Abdul Aleem Khan and the transporters has also been issued.
The government has tried to provide maximum relief in view of the current situation in the country.
Read more: Toll taxes in Pakistan: Govt, transporters reach initial agreement