A province-wide Wheel-Jam Strike has brought transport services to a standstill across Punjab, causing fear of delays, cancellations, and disruptions for millions of commuters. The strike was announced in protest against what transporters describe as excessive fines and harsh penalties introduced under the new Traffic Ordinance 2025.
Transporters from the Pakistan Transport United Action Committee confirmed that the Wheel-Jam Strike would continue until the government withdraws the ordinance. They stated that all major transport categories, including public buses, goods carriers, mini vans, loaders, rickshaws, and intercity vehicles, have halted operations across the province.
Leaders of the committee argued that the revised penalty structure is unaffordable and unfair. They claimed that driving licence fees have risen dramatically from Rs1,200 to Rs12,000 in Punjab, creating additional financial pressure on drivers already struggling with rising fuel costs and economic challenges. They said the fines under the ordinance are “exorbitant” and must be withdrawn immediately.
The strike comes after the first round of talks between transporters and the Punjab government failed to produce any breakthrough. A second round of negotiations is scheduled for 2 PM today. However, representatives insist that transport operations will not resume until the ordinance is completely reversed. They added that the Wheel-Jam Strike is their last option after multiple attempts to raise concerns through dialogue.
Meanwhile, IG Punjab Dr Usman Anwar issued a strict response, stating that the zero-tolerance approach to traffic violations will remain in place. He warned that halting public transport could endanger schoolchildren and other vulnerable commuters. The IG stressed that traffic laws are essential for public safety and that the government cannot compromise on enforcement.
He further stated that driving without a valid licence poses severe risks and contributes to deadly road accidents. The government, he added, will not allow negligence on the roads under any circumstances.
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As the strike continues, commuters across Punjab remain uncertain about when normal transport services will resume, depending on the outcome of today’s talks.
