ISLAMABAD – All Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance has announced an indefinite nationwide strike from Saturday (August 8) to protest fuel prices, daily pricing mechanisms for petroleum products and taxes imposed on the transport sector.
The strike was confirmed by Alliance President Malik Shehzad Awan, who said the transporters would remain off the roads until the government announces a clear course of action following negotiations with their representatives.
Speaking about the development, Awan said the federal government had invited representatives of the transport alliance to a meeting on Monday to discuss their concerns.
A committee has been formed to represent the transporters during talks with the government, he said, adding that the strike would continue until the meeting concludes and the alliance announces its next course of action.
The transport leader said negotiations between the goods transporters and officials at the commissioner’s office had previously failed to resolve the dispute, prompting the alliance to proceed with the strike.
The transport sector is protesting against the increase in petrol and diesel prices, the government’s decision to determine petroleum product prices on a daily basis, and the imposition of a 7% withholding tax on the transport industry.
The transporters argue that rising operating costs and additional taxation are placing significant financial pressure on the sector and making it increasingly difficult for businesses to operate sustainably.
The indefinite strike could affect the movement of goods across the country, potentially disrupting supply chains and deliveries if the dispute remains unresolved.
The transport alliance has formed a negotiating team to present its demands before the government during Monday’s meeting. The outcome of those talks is expected to determine whether the strike continues or is called off.
Transport representatives have urged the government to address their concerns and review the measures they say have increased the cost of operating goods vehicles.
The government has yet to announce details of any proposed measures to resolve the dispute.
