Goods Transporters Launch Nationwide Strike After Talks Collapse

Pakistan's transport sector is set for a nationwide strike as goods transporters and oil tanker operators suspended services Friday night following unsuccessful negotiations with the government. The "wheel-jam" strike, scheduled to begin Saturday, August 8, will involve commercial goods carriers across the country. Mohammad Owais Chaudhry Advocate, spokesperson for the All Pakistan Goods Transport Itehad and President of the All Pakistan Goods Transport Owners Association, stated that talks with Federal Minister for Communications Aleem Khan ended without a resolution. "We have informed the government side about the problems we are facing and our concerns," Chaudhry said, emphasizing the strike's indefinite nature until demands are met. Key demands include uniform enforcement of axle-load limits, allowing 10-wheel vehicles to carry up to 35 tonnes, and reductions in diesel prices and toll taxes. Transporters also seek relief in withholding tax and the withdrawal of customs provisions that allow vehicle confiscation. Additionally, they are calling for an end to excessive fines and challans by the Punjab Highway Patrol on motorways and highways, and smoother processes for issuing heavy transport vehicle licenses. The minister has assured further talks on Monday morning.

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We have informed the government side about the problems we are facing and our concerns.