Transport unions across Punjab have declared a two-phase shutdown to protest the recently enforced traffic laws that impose steep penalties on drivers.
According to Hayat News, the Transport Action Committee’s Rawalpindi chapter confirmed that transporters will stage a complete province-wide strike on December 8, citing widespread issuance of hefty fines. The committee added that a second, broader shutdown involving both public and goods transport will follow on December 10.
The Islamabad Transport Federation has also thrown its weight behind the protest. Its vice president said the sharply increased penalties are unacceptable and confirmed that transporters in the capital will fully participate in the strike.
The demonstrations target the Punjab Motor Vehicle Ordinance 2025, which came into effect in late November. The new regulations significantly raise fines for violations such as overspeeding, running red lights, and overloading. While the government says the ordinance aims to enhance road safety and curb environmental risks, transporters argue that its implementation is overly aggressive.
Last week, traffic authorities launched a major crackdown under a zero-tolerance policy ordered by DIG Traffic Muhammad Waqas Nazir. In just 48 hours, police issued more than 76,000 challans, collecting over Rs71.2 million in fines. They registered 1,402 FIRs, impounded over 13,000 vehicles, and sent 1,390 violators to jail, according to an official spokesperson.
Transporters say these penalties are placing unsustainable financial pressure on drivers without delivering meaningful improvements in safety. They also warn that restrictions on goods movement could slow the supply of essential items, potentially causing shortages and driving up prices.
The upcoming strikes highlight growing tensions between strict enforcement measures and the transport sector’s capacity to absorb rising costs. How the provincial government responds may determine whether the dispute escalates or moves toward resolution.
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