Transport unions in Pakistan have announced a nationwide wheel-jam strike on Friday, December 19. All goods and public transport will halt. The protest targets high traffic fines, challans, and vehicle impoundments.
Multiple transport bodies, including the All Pakistan Transport Federation, inter-city and inter-district unions, goods transporters, and student services, are participating. Union leaders warned the strike will disrupt passengers, cargo, and supply chains from Khyber to Karachi. Intra-city buses, wagons, rail services, wholesale markets, and delivery operations will also remain closed.
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The unions said the strike would affect business centers, factories, banks, petrol pumps, government offices, and schools nationwide. They said the shutdown will continue until authorities withdraw the newly introduced traffic challan and fine system. Union leaders accused the government of failing to honor earlier assurances to address their concerns.
Vice President Asif Khan and leaders Lala Suhail and Tariq Khan said the decision followed consultations with other transport sectors. They added that the strike would proceed unless the government reversed its policy measures affecting the sector. The unions emphasized that the protest is a last resort to defend drivers’ rights.
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The nationwide strike highlights growing tensions between transporters and government authorities over fines and enforcement policies. Passengers and businesses are advised to plan ahead for December 19. Authorities have not yet responded to the announcement.