Transport unions in Punjab have announced a province-wide strike to protest newly imposed heavy traffic fines. The strike will halt all operations on December 8 and target both public and goods transport on December 10. Transporters argue the fines are excessive and unfair, putting serious pressure on drivers.
The Islamabad Transport Federation has expressed full support for Punjab transporters. Its vice president said the penalties are unrealistic and members will observe a complete strike in solidarity. The protest aims to pressure the government to revise fines under the Punjab Motor Vehicle Ordinance 2025. Authorities, however, maintain the fines are necessary to improve road safety and reduce environmental hazards.
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The ordinance imposes hefty penalties for speeding, signal violations, and overloading. Transport associations argue these fines could disrupt the movement of essential goods. They warn the strike may lead to supply delays, higher costs, and logistical challenges across the province.
Traffic police recently conducted a 48-hour crackdown under a zero-tolerance policy led by DIG Traffic Muhammad Waqas Nazir. Over 76,000 challans were issued, fines exceeded Rs71.2 million, 13,000 vehicles were impounded, and 1,390 violators jailed. Despite this, transport unions claim road safety has not improved significantly.
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The unions demand that fines be revised to fair and manageable levels. They insist the strike will continue unless authorities address their concerns. Officials have yet to announce a response, leaving the province bracing for potential disruption.