KARACHI – Goods Transporters from across Pakistan have announced an indefinite nationwide strike starting on August 8 if the government does not accept their demands. Transport leaders said the protest will continue until authorities respond to their concerns.
The announcement was made during a press conference at the Karachi Press Club by Malik Shehzad Awan. He said transport associations from different parts of the country had agreed to participate in the strike.
According to Awan, a charter of demands has already been submitted to both the federal and provincial governments. He warned that the planned protest would begin on August 8 if no action is taken before then.
The Goods Transporters have also demanded the resignation of Petroleum Minister Parvez Ali Malik. They believe changes are needed to address issues affecting the transport industry.
One of the major demands is the end of the daily petroleum price adjustment system. Transporters want the government to restore the previous monthly fuel pricing mechanism. They also called for the withdrawal of recent fuel price increases.
The transport sector has expressed concern over rising operational costs. Representatives said frequent fuel price changes make it difficult for businesses to manage expenses and plan transportation services.
Another key demand is the immediate reversal of the recent increase in toll taxes. The transport associations want toll charges restored to the rates that were in effect on June 30, 2024.
The Goods Transporters have also called for changes to the taxation system. They requested the government to reduce the 7 percent withholding tax on the sector to 2 percent, matching the rate applied to oil tankers.
Transport leaders also stressed the need for strict enforcement of axle-load regulations. They said proper implementation would help prevent overloading and improve road safety.
Among other demands, the associations asked the government to withdraw Customs SRO 1619/2024. They also requested that Heavy Transport Vehicle (HTV) licences be issued after proper driving tests.
The transport community further urged authorities to provide dedicated parking facilities for commercial vehicles near Karachi Port and Port Qasim. They said better infrastructure would improve transport operations.
Awan also raised concerns about attacks on transport vehicles in Balochistan. He called on the government to strengthen law and order measures to improve the safety of drivers and transport companies.
The associations rejected the law banning vehicles older than 20 years. They also opposed the rule setting road accident compensation at Rs9.7 million, demanding both policies be withdrawn.
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In addition, transport leaders urged the Sindh government to end what they described as unnecessary charges collected during vehicle registration under third-party insurance. They said the Goods Transporters sector expects constructive dialogue with the government before the strike date.
