Public transporters announced a wheel-jam strike in Rawalpindi and Islamabad from Monday. Transporters rejected higher traffic fines and asked the Punjab government to withdraw the new ordinance. Negotiations failed, and more groups are joining the protest.
Local transporters announced a transport strike in Punjab from Monday, December 8. The call was given by the Punjab Public Transport Association. The strike will affect the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
Before the announcement, representatives of the Punjab Public Transport Association and the Goods Transporters Association met City Traffic Police officer Farhan Aslam and Regional Transport Authority Secretary Asad Shirazi. The administration requested them to postpone the strike. However, transporters refused and said they would continue until the ordinance was withdrawn.
Shirazi said that the officials tried to convince the transporters but cannot cancel the amendments at their level. He added that the Punjab government has received the demands and will hold talks with the United Transport Association in Lahore.
Why Are Transporters Protesting?
Raja Muhammad Riaz, Chairman of the Mutahida Transport Federation of the twin cities, said transporters are facing serious financial pressure. He said traffic fines ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 20,000 have become routine and are affecting livelihoods. Rising fuel prices and costly spare parts had already increased expenses.
He demanded the government reduce fines and change policies that affect the sector. He also said that traffic police have agreed not to fine vehicles that hold a valid fitness certificate.
Support Grows for Strike
Shakeel Qureshi, President of the Goods Transport Association, said freight transporters in Rawalpindi will support the strike. He said transporter bases would remain closed on December 8. He also criticized the traffic laws passed by the Punjab Assembly and urged the government to consult stakeholders before making decisions.
Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam (JUI) Rawalpindi also supports the strike. Party spokesperson Hafiz Ziaullah said that heavy fines are affecting people, especially poor motorcyclists. He urged Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to reduce the fines and adopt people-friendly policies.
