Transport Strike Talks Begin as December 19 Shutdown Looms
Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan will arrive in Karachi on Monday for transport strike talks. He plans to meet transport leaders ahead of a planned nationwide shutdown. Therefore, the meeting carries high importance for commuters and businesses.
Minister to Meet Transporters in Karachi
The federal minister will hold negotiations with a 12-member delegation from the Goods Transport Alliance. The meeting will begin at 4pm at the transporters’ protest camp in Karachi. As a result, both sides hope to find common ground before December 19.
Several unions have announced a complete strike on that day. These include goods transporters, inter-city and inter-district unions, and pickup-and-drop services. In addition, unions representing students and government employees will also join.
Transport leaders say the strike responds to heavy traffic fines and frequent challans. They also oppose vehicle impoundments and what they describe as harassment. However, authorities have not yet announced any rollback.
Union representatives warned that transport from Khyber to Karachi will stop entirely. Therefore, movement of goods and passengers may halt across the country.
Unions Warn of Nationwide Wheel-Jam
Transport unions announced that bus, wagon, and rail-linked services will remain closed. Intra-city transport will also stop operations. As a result, daily commuting will face major disruption.
Markets, shopping areas, and business centres will shut down. Industrial units, factories, and wholesale markets will also suspend work. In addition, supply chains, petrol pumps, and banking activities will halt.
Government offices and educational institutions may remain closed as well. Union leaders said the strike will continue until authorities withdraw the new challan and fine system.
Vice President and spokesperson Asif Khan, along with Lala Suhail and Tariq Khan, criticised the government. They said officials failed to honour earlier promises. Therefore, they decided to move toward a full wheel-jam strike.
On December 19, Pakistan will be shut,” the leaders warned. They added that unity across sectors strengthens their resolve.
