Transporters Halt Protests Following Government Assurances
On April 29, Pakistan -- Transport operators decided to end their demonstrations after productive talks took place between the Sindh government and the transporters in Karachi.
The United Goods Transport Association and the Pakistan Goods Transport Association, represented by Nisar Hussain Jafri and Ghulam Yasin Niazi respectively, held talks with Sindh’s senior minister and provincial minister responsible for information, transportation, and mass transit, Sharjeel Inam Memon. Joining them were Special Assistant to the Chief Minister Qasim Naveed Qamar and Deputy Inspector General of Traffic Pir Muhammad Shah. Among those from the transporter group present at the meeting were Shabbar Malik, Fazal Elahi, Haji Ilyas, as well as Haji Yousuf who leads the All Truck Dumpers Owners Association, alongside his role as general secretary under Jan Alam and member Mian Jan.
During a briefing with government officials, the transporters discussed the challenges and various issues stemming from the lawyers’ demonstration. Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon informed the transporters that the Sindh government was committed to addressing their concerns and resolving these matters. Addressing the group, he noted that transporters were encountering obstacles because many vehicles had become immobilized due to the protests. The minister also mentioned that shipping firms and importers would be asked not to burden the transport sector unnecessarily. Furthermore, he highlighted how this situation has significantly disrupted commercial activities throughout Pakistan. He reaffirmed that both the specific hardships faced by transport operators and wider economic impacts have been recognized by the Sindh administration.
Subsequently, Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, accompanied by a group of transporters, went to Mai Kolachi Road where the demonstration was taking place. Speaking to the transporters, Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon stated that the Sindh government acknowledges the issues confronting the transportation sector, problems they have been dealing with for quite some time now.
He notified them about an earlier meeting during the day wherein significant choices had been finalized. Additionally, a task force has been established to look into the burnt-out vehicles from various incidents, under the supervision of Commissioner Karachi and Secretary Transport who will manage both the investigation process and ensure appropriate compensations are provided. He mentioned that countless vehicles remain halted because of the protest action, causing delays in essential supplies like edibles, animals, and merchandise. The previous day saw the Sindh Chief Minister engage in conversation with the Prime Minister proposing an imminent gathering of the Council of Common Interests. Expressing optimism, he conveyed his hopes for positive developments leading to unrestricted access across all thoroughfares. “Our aim is swift delivery of every form of transportation to their intended locations,” he concluded.
The Chief Secretary of Sindh will also write to the shipping companies to ensure that no additional fare or fines are imposed on the transporters. Sharjeel Inam Memon said that Pakistan is facing numerous challenges, and people are currently enduring significant difficulties due to the road blockages. He emphasized that every Pakistani needs to acknowledge their responsibility and work towards oneness and unity. "I appeal to the protesters to call off the protest right away so that problems of the people may be resolved," he added. "The government was with you yesterday, is with you today, and will be with you tomorrow." The goods transporters called off their protest after Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon promised an assurance.