Punjab Transporters Strike Over High Fines and Ordinance

A province-wide transport shutdown began in Punjab today as goods transporters launched a wheel-jam strike. They are protesting heavy traffic fines and the Motor Vehicle Ordinance 2025. The strike has disrupted goods movement and public transport across multiple cities. Passengers are stranded, and businesses face anxiety over delayed deliveries. The protest highlights growing tensions between authorities and the transport sector.

Transporters say they are “worried and exhausted” due to excessive fines and unjustified cases against drivers. Their central demand is the immediate repeal of the new ordinance. Chaudhry Maqbool, president of Punjab’s goods transporters body, warned that the strike will continue until all demands are accepted. He added that drivers regularly face legal and financial pressures. Officials have not yet responded to their grievances.

Goods transport depots in Lahore’s Sherakot area were fully closed, halting all operations. Similarly, public transport in Duniyapur and nearby towns stopped completely. Bus stands remained deserted, leaving passengers visibly concerned. Kabirwala also reported a total shutdown, affecting both buses and goods transport. Transporters warned that delays would worsen unless authorities address their demands quickly.

Passengers struggled to find alternatives, as rickshaws and other transport were scarce. Many commuters missed work or urgent travel commitments. Transport associations said the increased penalties place a heavy burden on drivers and vehicle owners. The All Pakistan Goods Transport Owners Association had previously given authorities a December 8 deadline. Their 25-point demand list calls for reduced fines and withdrawal of unfair cases.

Transporters reiterated that targeted challans must stop and penalties be relaxed. They also demand approval of all 25 requests, including reversal of the revised penalty structure. Authorities are under pressure to respond quickly to prevent further disruption. If demands remain unmet, transporters warn of continued shutdown and halted supply of essential items. The strike marks a significant challenge for Punjab’s transport and logistics sector.

READ MORE :Transporters Block Karachi’s Northern Bypass in Protest

Thousands of vehicles were stranded on Karachi’s Northern Bypass on Saturday as transporters staged a sit-in protest. The protest, led by the Transporters Association, lasted for over 10 hours, blocking the key route. Long queues formed as the road was closed to all types of traffic. The demonstration disrupted traffic flow, causing significant delays.

The protest began after an alleged altercation between transporters and Pakistan Customs officials. Protesters accused customs personnel of smashing windows of 20-25 vehicles during a heated argument. They also claimed customs officials used abusive language, batons, and even opened fire on the transporters. Several people were reportedly injured and taken to hospitals.