Govt opts for high-level talks as strike strains ports

Islamabad: The trucking and edible oil tanker industry strike, now in its eighth day, could conclude on Sunday following high-level talks between federal and provincial government officials and transporter representatives at Karachi's Governor House. The congested ports, faced with a backlog of containers, have been impacted by the prolonged disruption, prompting official attempts to resolve the dispute and involving security authorities in the efforts.

Communications Minister Abdul Aleem Khan, tasked by the prime minister as the negotiating liaison with the transporters, and Punjab Transport Minister Bilal Akbar are set to travel to Karachi for the talks. Sindh Governor and various provincial transport officials, including representatives from the Karachi Port Trust and Port Qasim Authority, are also expected to attend.

Striking transporter groups, under the leadership of the All Pakistan Goods Transport Ittehad, have been protesting for over eight days, with demands ranging from reduced withholding taxes to the establishment of a dedicated parking facility for trailers and trucks handling cargo at Karachi Port. The seven percent tax on goods transport, currently at 6pc, contrasts with the 2pc rate for fuel tankers, and striking groups are demanding parity.

Customs officials' practice of impounding vehicles carrying smuggled or illicit goods has also been a contentious issue, with questions raised about the legitimacy of seizing such vehicles. Transporters have insisted on a strong guarantee regarding any agreement, skeptical of mere verbal assurances. They have appealed for unity and peaceful resolution, urging transporters to remain united and refrain from speculation while awaiting practical progress on their demands.