Transporters Announce Nationwide Wheel-Jam Strike Against New Traffic Rules

A province-wide transport strike in Punjab has been announced for 8 December, with a nationwide shutdown planned from 10 December, as transporters protest the Punjab government’s recent increase in traffic fines.

The All Pakistan Goods Transport Association (APGTA) said the wheel-jam strike would begin if the authorities fail to accept their 25-point list of demands before the deadline. APGTA President Nabeel Tariq made the announcement during a press conference in Lahore on Wednesday.

Nabeel Tariq said the government implemented the Traffic Ordinance 2025 without consulting transporters. He explained that nearly 80% of their operations have stopped because of the heavy fines introduced under the new rules.

Both public and goods transport associations argue that the revised traffic penalties have placed an undue financial burden on drivers and vehicle owners.

Representatives warned that the movement of essential goods could stop if the issue is not resolved. They added that the sector is already under pressure due to what they describe as targeted challans and a tougher penalty structure.

In addition, goods transporters are also demanding land for new truck stands across Punjab and stronger action against rising incidents of highway robberies. They said the industry faces growing security risks and cannot continue operations under the current circumstances.