Goods Transporters Suspend Nationwide Strike Temporarily

The All Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance has temporarily halted its nine-day nationwide strike, agreeing to address key demands of the transport industry over the next 40 days. Alliance President Malik Shahzad Awan made the announcement alongside Sindh Governor Nehal Hashmi, Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, and Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan during a press conference.

Awan clarified that some demands have already been addressed, while others will be presented to the federal cabinet and relevant committees. The agreement includes several critical changes, such as reviewing petroleum product prices every 15 days instead of daily, establishing committees on toll taxes and axle load enforcement, and maintaining a 35-ton weight limit for 10-wheeler vehicles on national highways for two years.

The governments also committed to reviewing Customs SRO 1619 and releasing seized vehicles in smuggling cases upon presenting court orders. Parking facilities in Karachi will see 17 acres of land allocated within 15 days, with additional spaces planned in other areas. Punjab has pledged land for truck stands in four cities as well.

The agreement covers various demands, including vehicle weight and size limits, third-party insurance, withholding tax, highway enforcement, and the treatment of sealed containers. A committee will review these matters within 15 days. The alliance will continue working on unresolved issues and monitor the implementation of commitments. If the government fails to honor its promises, transporters may resume their strike.