Commuters suffer as Attock-Pindi transport strike enters second day

Terror on the Attock-Rawalpindi route continues into its second day as a public transport strike caused by intensified police checks on LPG cylinder usage in buses and coaches dragged on. Students, workers, women and everyday travelers found themselves stranded on Wednesday, as the standoff between drivers and officials left thousands without reliable alternatives.

The impasse forced many to endure hours of oppressive heat or shell out more cash for scarce private rides. The dispute began when authorities cracked down on LPG-powered vehicles, claiming they were acting to ensure safety and adhere to regulations. However, commuters argue they're being forced to foot the bill for a conflict they didn't start.

The strike's second day brought new complaints from passengers, especially women and the elderly, about the prolonged waits and shortage of transport. With their daily commutes to work, school and hospitals jeopardized, citizens warned that the suspension of services would further disrupt education, employment and basic travel for many. "We're already in day two of this misery," said Faizan Ahmed, a private-sector employee. "We need to get to our jobs and schools every morning, but there's no trustworthy transport."

Students worried the strike was jeopardizing their education, while working residents feared arriving late to work or losing pay. One university student said, "We can't afford taxis every day. The authorities should resolve this instead of leaving ordinary passengers in the lurch." Commuters accepted the need to crack down on safety rules but demanded a workable solution that protects passengers and preserves public transportation.

They called on the district administration to bring drivers and traffic officials to the negotiating table to put an end to the deadlock.

Transporters noted that without functioning CNG stations and soaring fuel prices, running buses was financially untenable. They relied on LPG because it was their only option and questioned how they could bring their vehicles onto the roads if seized. Zaheer Ahmed, secretary of the Regional Transport Authority, confirmed the crackdown was ordered by the provincial government and said 20 LPG-powered vehicles had been impounded for legal action. However, he defended the move against pressure from what he called a "transport mafia."