The All-Pakistan Transporters Association Alliance has threatened to block the National Highways and motorways for all types of traffic if their concerns are not addressed within 72 hours. This move, if executed, could significantly disrupt logistics and supply chains across the region.
During a press conference in Karachi, transport association leaders expressed frustration over what they described as unjust fines and penalties imposed by various authorities, including PSO, the National Highway Authority (NHA), the Motorway Police, and the Sindh Excise Police. They highlighted how these actions are creating severe challenges for freight transporters, putting their businesses at risk.
They accused these entities of imposing excessive penalties without addressing their long-standing grievances. They lamented that previous verbal assurances from the authorities have yielded no tangible results, leaving them with no choice but to consider drastic measures.
Mir Shams Shahwani, Chairman of the All Pakistan Oil Tankers Owners Association, stated that if their demands are not met within 72 hours, they will shut down major highways, bringing transportation operations across the country to a halt. Shahwani emphasized the urgency of the situation, urging the government to take immediate action.
The press conference was attended by prominent figures from the transport sector, including Bakhtawar Khan Wazir, Chairman of the All Pakistan Edible Oil Owners Association; Haji Liaqat Mehsud, President of the All Sindh Truck and Dumper Association; Abdul Wahid Lari, Chairman of the Sindh-Balochistan Mazda Union; and leaders from the All Pakistan Mazda Truck Goods Transport Association, All Water Tankers Owners Association, All Pakistan Awan Goods Association, and Karachi Goods Association.
The transporters clarified that they are united in their demands and will not back down unless the government intervenes to address their issues. With the looming threat of highway closures, the authorities face mounting pressure to resolve the situation and avert a potential transportation crisis.