Goods transporters to continue wheel-jam strike

The Express Tribune reported that the All Pakistan Goods Transport Itehad will keep its nationwide wheel-jam strike going, rejecting official claims that consensus had been reached. The union said talks with the government ended without a breakthrough, and heavy vehicles will stay off roads until its demands are accepted. Spokesman Muhammad Owais Chaudhry Advocate said the group is ready to keep negotiating but will not withdraw its demands.

Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan issued a statement after two days of talks, saying a joint monitoring committee would be set up with Customs officials and transporters. According to the statement, the transporters fully supported his axle-load proposal and want the problem tackled at its root using one standard policy. Discussions also covered short and long-term steps to ease transporters' difficulties with Customs, while the minister ordered quick action on weighing station complaints.

The Itehad's demands include uniform enforcement of the axle-load limit set by law, tax relief, and diesel price revisions once a month rather than at short intervals. Maritime Affairs Minister Junaid Anwar joined by video link and promised immediate, full cooperation on maritime matters. The five-hour meeting also featured detailed talks between Ministry of Petroleum officials and representatives of edible oil, petroleum, container and intercity cargo operators.