The Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance has made it clear that the ongoing transporters’ strike will not be called off without an official government notification addressing their demands. Alliance President Malik Shehzad Awan, while speaking in Karachi, said verbal assurances are not enough and transporters require written confirmation to restore operations.
According to Awan, all loading and unloading activities at Pakistan’s major ports remain completely suspended, causing growing concern among port authorities and traders. He warned that the situation could worsen if the disruption continues.
Port Qasim and Karachi Port Near Capacity
Awan revealed that container terminals at Port Qasim and Karachi Port are already operating at nearly 80 percent capacity. If cargo movement does not resume soon, terminals may run out of space to handle additional containers, leading to serious logistical and economic challenges.
Industry insiders say prolonged congestion at ports could affect imports, exports, and supply chains, particularly for essential goods.
Talks Scheduled With Government Committee
The alliance president confirmed that fresh negotiations with a government committee are scheduled for today at 12 noon. He added that the transporters have already held discussions with both federal and Punjab government negotiation committees.
According to Awan, authorities from both governments have shown willingness to accept the transporters’ demands. However, he stressed that the strike will continue until a formal notification is issued and officially communicated.
Concerns Over Driver Detentions and Legal Amendments
Goods transporters have also raised serious concerns over the detention of drivers in various parts of Punjab, calling the actions unfair and disruptive. Additionally, the alliance objected to recent amendments to the Motor Vehicle Ordinance 1965, which they claim have introduced stricter regulations for heavy transport vehicles without proper consultation.
Transporters argue that these measures have increased operational pressure and contributed to the ongoing unrest within the sector.
As negotiations continue, businesses and traders across the country are closely watching developments, hoping for a resolution that prevents further economic disruption.
