Goods transporters warn of nationwide strike over new fuel policy

Goods transporters have threatened to suspend transport operations across Pakistan if the government does not withdraw its new petroleum pricing policy. They warned that the country could face serious disruptions if their demands are ignored.

Speaking at a press conference, Karachi Goods Carriers Association General Secretary Nadeem Akhtar Arain, along with Association President Malik Sher Khan, Vice Chairman and Vice President Ayaz Khan, said the government has been given 24 hours to reverse its decision. He said transporters would launch a nationwide wheel-jam strike if no action is taken.

The association also warned that goods transport offices across the country would be closed if their demands are not accepted. It said major transport organisations would join hands to start nationwide protests.

Transport leaders said the transport sector is the backbone of Pakistan’s economy but has been ignored for years. They added that repeated increases in diesel and petrol prices have pushed transport businesses into a serious financial crisis.

Nadeem Akhtar Arain said transporters and the public are not receiving the full benefit of falling international crude oil prices. He said transport costs continue to rise despite lower oil prices in the global market.

The association claimed that current government policies are creating difficulties not only for the transport industry but also for the country’s overall economy. It warned that the sector is facing increasing pressure because of rising operational expenses.

The transport body also alleged that drivers and vehicle owners in Punjab, Balochistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir and other regions are facing unnecessary inspections, heavy fines, alleged bribery and harassment by different departments. It said these actions are badly affecting transport businesses and creating problems for drivers.

The association warned that if the government fails to resolve the issue immediately, the suspension of goods transport could disrupt imports, exports, fuel supplies, food, medicines and the movement of other essential goods. It said such a situation could seriously affect both the national economy and the public.

Also read: Goods transport fares jump 15% after fuel price hike

Nadeem Akhtar Arain urged the Prime Minister, Finance Minister and other relevant authorities to immediately review the recent decisions on diesel and petrol prices. He also called on the government to address the long-standing problems faced by transporters.

A nationwide transport strike could affect supply chains across Pakistan within a short time. If both sides do not reach an agreement, businesses and consumers may face delays in the delivery of essential goods.