Countrywide Strike Announced by Goods Transporters From July 25

Goods transporters have declared a wheel-jam strike starting from July 25. During a press conference on Tuesday, the Goods Transporters Association in Gujranwala announced this strike in response to ongoing unresolved issues and demands from the transport sector.

The transporters have put forth several key demands that they insist must be addressed, saying that no bookings or deliveries will be processed until their concerns are resolved. They want a standardized system of weight measurement across Pakistan, arguing that the current lack of uniformity causes inconsistencies and significant issues within the transport industry.

The association has called for not allowing patrolling police to fine them, complaining that the motorway police, patrolling police, and traffic police issue unnecessary fines. They highlighted the issue of heavy fines, particularly noting that goods transported from Karachi to Gujranwala can incur fines up to Rs. 50,000, which they believe is excessive and burdensome.

Additionally, the transporters have demanded customs authorities stop what they describe as “illegal checking” of goods, which they consider unfair and a hindrance to their operations. The planned wheel-jam strike is expected to significantly disrupt the movement of goods across the country, impacting supply chains and potentially leading to shortages and delays in various sectors.

The transporters are also protesting the excessive toll taxes, which they claim increase every three months. The association has demanded an end to the extortion system on highways and the transfer of axle load responsibilities to the motorway police.