Pakistan Transport Unions Call Nationwide Strike on December 19

Transport groups across the country have announced a major Pakistan transport strike on Friday, December 19. Their leaders plan a complete shutdown to protest heavy fines, challans, vehicle impoundments, and what they describe as ongoing harassment. As a result, the strike may disrupt daily routines for many communities.
The All Pakistan Transport Federation, along with inter-city, inter-district and goods transport unions, confirmed their participation. In addition, student and government employee pickup-and-drop unions also joined the call. Leaders said transport from Khyber to Karachi will stop entirely on the announced day.

Full Shutdown Planned Across Key Sectors

Transport representatives stated that bus, wagon and rail services will remain closed. They also expect markets, business centres, factories, industrial units and petrol pumps to shut down. Banking services, government offices and educational institutions may also stay closed. For example, supply chains and wholesale markets will likely face significant delays.
Union leaders argue that the current traffic fine system places an unfair burden on drivers and owners. They said they will continue the strike until the government withdraws the new challan structure. Therefore, they urged officials to open meaningful dialogue.

Leaders Accuse Government of Failing Promises

Vice President Asif Khan and spokespersons Lala Suhail and Tariq Khan criticised the government for failing to meet earlier commitments. They explained that several rounds of discussions produced no relief. In addition, they claimed that transporters now feel they have no option but to escalate their protest.
“We are moving towards a complete wheel-jam strike,” they said. They added that Pakistan will experience a full shutdown on December 19 if authorities do not act.