Talks between transporters, police break down as Karachi strike enters third day

A strike by public transport operators in Karachi has entered its third day, with talks between union leaders and police breaking down. The "wheel-jam" strike, which commenced on Thursday, targets electronic traffic challans, hefty fines, and what operators describe as "other regulatory measures." Haji Tawab Khan, president of the Karachi Transport Ittehad (KTI), stated that the strike will persist after a meeting with the DIG Traffic yielded no resolution. Khan reported that the DIG Traffic indicated reversing e-challans was beyond his authority but assured a review of challans deemed unjustified by transporters. Crucially, none of the transporters' core demands have been met, and no official meetings have been scheduled despite repeated requests. KTI Vice President Muhammad Ilyas detailed the transporters' primary concerns, including objections to the high fines imposed through the e-challan system, which utilizes cameras at traffic signals and body-worn devices. He noted that these penalties have become increasingly burdensome for operators. Additional grievances include the complex and time-consuming biometric verification process for vehicle ownership transfers and a demand for a review of the mandatory third-party insurance, which costs approximately Rs12,000. Meanwhile, Sindh Local Government Minister Nasir Shah acknowledged that Transport Minister Sharjeel Memon is aware of the strike and expressed optimism for a swift resolution. The ongoing strike has significantly disrupted daily commutes, forcing thousands of Karachi residents to find alternative transportation to reach workplaces, educational institutions, and commercial hubs.

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We held a meeting with the DIG Traffic, who said reversing the e-challans was not under his authority.