Goods Transporters End Strike After Successful Talks With Authorities

Goods transporters across Pakistan on Wednesday called off their nationwide strike following successful discussions with government authorities.

“All of our demands have been accepted,” Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance President Malik Shehzad Awan announced during a press conference at Gulbai Truck Stand in Karachi, flanked by Punjab Transport Minister Bilal Akbar and Sindh government spokesperson Murtaza Wahab. Awan added that the strike was being suspended based on assurances given by the authorities.

Punjab Transport Minister Bilal Akbar praised the transport community for conducting a peaceful strike. He also announced that heavy fines and FIRs against transporters have been abolished. Addressing one of the key demands, he stated that fitness certificates obtained in Karachi will now be recognized in Punjab, valid for six months.

The minister further shared that, following directions from Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, new truck stands will be constructed in all major cities. He added that rest areas will be built for drivers, and anyone qualified to drive will be issued a heavy transport vehicle (HTV) license.

Speaking on the occasion, Murtaza Wahab, who also serves as Karachi Mayor, emphasized that the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) maintains active contact with transporters. He noted that the Sindh government consults transporters before making decisions that affect them, and added that the protest demonstrated that demonstrations can be conducted peacefully.

The resolution of the strike marks a significant step toward improved relations between the transport sector and authorities, ensuring smoother logistics operations and better facilities for transport workers across the country.