Daily Times

The government should promptly fulfill the legitimate demands of the Good Transport Association. Highlighting the problems of this sector amidst current economic conditions and other challenges, there is a dire need for effective security measures under Azm-e-Istehkam to ensure smooth business operations. Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) Senior Vice President Zafar Mahmood Chaudhry expressed these views while addressing a joint delegation of Pakistan Goods Transport Association and Pakistan Traders and Manufacturers Alliance here at LCCI on Saturday. The delegation, comprising President Nabeel Mahmood, Senior Vice President Malik Adnan, Vice Presidents Marza Arshad, Mumtaz Khan, Chairman Faisalabad Union Chaudhry Mohsin, General Secretary Zahid Saeed, from Pakistan Traders and Manufacturers Alliance General Secretary Muhammad Waqar, Muhammad Ijaz Mushtaq, Hafiz Imran, Syed Ahmed Bukhari and M. Asim, presented their demands.

The delegation urged for uniform application of axle load limits across Pakistan, returning of overweight vehicles instead of fines and withdrawal of challans by Motorway Police without violating traffic laws. They also demanded an immediate rollback of toll tax increases and advocated for drivers’ safety in remote areas of Sindh, calling for clearance of areas from dacoits.

They further proposed effective measures to curb rising highway robberies and replacement of Excise Load Management System with NLC, FWO or Motorway Police. They recommended installation of Kanta (weigh) at exit points of every city and enactment of legislation for body manufacturing, prohibiting unauthorized checking by customs officials.

They also urged immediate reduction in electricity rates, termination of unfair contracts under IPPs and cessation of facilitation to the elite through traders’ taxes. They said that in this context, a protest movement will commence from July 25th.