Talks between the Sindh government and transporters ended without an agreement on Friday. Consequently, the All Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance confirmed an indefinite nationwide strike from August 8.
Transporters announced the strike over daily petroleum price fluctuations. They argued that frequent fuel price changes have severely affected transport businesses.
The Sindh government held negotiations to prevent the planned strike. However, both sides failed to reach a breakthrough despite several discussions.
Transporters Stand Firm On Demands
Alliance President Malik Shahzad Awan said representatives presented a detailed charter of demands during the talks. However, he accused the Sindh government of showing little seriousness.
Awan confirmed the nationwide strike would begin as scheduled. Moreover, he insisted that the government must accept all demands before ending the protest.
Federal Government Enters Negotiations
Following the failed provincial talks, the matter shifted to Islamabad. Therefore, the federal government stepped in to prevent the transport shutdown.
Federal Minister Abdul Aleem invited transport leaders for fresh negotiations later on Friday. Meanwhile, Awan confirmed receiving the invitation and agreed to attend the meeting.
The planned strike has raised concerns about supply chains across Pakistan. Furthermore, analysts warned that prolonged disruption could increase commodity prices and fuel inflation. Officials now hope the federal talks will help resolve the dispute before the nationwide strike begins.
