KARACHI: Transporters across Pakistan have announced a countrywide wheel-jam strike for December 8 in protest against the imposition of heavy traffic fines and the registration of FIRs against drivers.
Goods Transport Association President Tariq Gujjar said the decision was taken after extensive consultations with various transport bodies. He added that the strike has gained wider support, as oil tanker operators and local transporters have also joined the protest.
According to Gujjar, transport activities at ports will be completely suspended from Monday evening. He accused the current government of pushing the transport sector towards a forced shutdown.
Another transport leader, Shehzad Awan, revealed that thousands of FIRs have been registered against drivers under the Motor Vehicle Ordinance. He further claimed that a large number of vehicles have been impounded and are currently parked at police stations across the country.
Senior Vice Chairman of the Oil Tanker Association, Khanzada Khan Mehsud, warned that continued pressure from the authorities could financially ruin transporters. He urged the government to halt what he termed as “harassment” and resolve the issue through dialogue.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Transport Joint Action Committee has confirmed that public and goods transport services will remain suspended in Punjab during the strike. The committee has demanded the immediate withdrawal of the traffic ordinance and the acceptance of its fourteen-point charter of demands.
