Goods transporters postpone strike for 40 days in ‘broader national interest’

According to Dawn, the country's goods transporters said on Sunday that they will hold off on their walkout for another 40 days, citing the wider national interest. The action had been called on Aug 8 once negotiations stalled over how often petrol and diesel prices are set. A fresh round of talks with senior federal and provincial officials was planned at the Governor House in Karachi.

Malik Shehbaz Awan, president of the All Pakistan Goods Transport Ittehad, said some demands had been met immediately while others needed cabinet approval, for which 15 to 20 days were given. The government asked for 15 days on the fuel price question, and the association would rather see prices revised fortnightly or monthly. Assurances were also reported on axle-load enforcement, a new truck stand in Sindh within a year, and a committee on withholding tax.

Sindh Governor Nihal Hashmi said both sides had shown flexibility, while Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan said many issues had been resolved and committees were formed for the rest. Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab added that some matters require coordination with the Karachi Port Trust while others need legislative changes. Key demands also cover uniform axle-load enforcement, permission for 10-wheelers to carry 35 tonnes, lower diesel prices and toll taxes, and withdrawal of customs rules on vehicle confiscation.