ISLAMABAD: The negotiations between the federal government and representatives of goods transporters failed to reach an agreement following an extended video-linked meeting.
The talks, which lasted for more than one and a half hours, ended without any concrete outcome, prompting plans for an in-person meeting between transporters and a government committee later today.
Furthermore, the virtual meeting brought together federal officials and a 12-member delegation of goods transporters to discuss the transporters’ concerns and demands. Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan and Minister of State for Finance Bilal Kiyani participated in the meeting via video link. Senior officials, including the Inspector General of the Motorway Police and a member of Customs, were also part of the discussions.
In this regard, the goods transporters’ delegation was led by Malik Shehzad Awan, President of the transporters’ association. The transporters raised several issues related to regulatory measures, fines, toll charges, and operating conditions for heavy vehicles.
In this sense, Malik Shehzad Awan said that both the federal government and the transporters’ alliance had formed separate committees to facilitate negotiations. He stated that the transporters formally demanded the withdrawal of the 1916 SRO, which they believe has negatively impacted their operations.
So far, the additional demands included relief for 22-wheeler trucks, a reduction in what they described as excessive fines imposed by the Motorway Police, and a review of increased toll plaza charges.
Moreover, Awan focused on the fact that the transporters’ community has maintained a peaceful stance throughout the ongoing strike, which has now entered its eighth day. He noted that no damage to public or private property has been reported during this period.
He added that the transporters have no conflict with either the Sindh government or the federal government and are only seeking what they consider their basic rights. Meanwhile, Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan acknowledged during the meeting that the transporters’ demands relate to fundamental rights.
He said the transporters’ community appreciated the minister’s recognition of their concerns, adding that disruptions in the transport sector have a direct impact on overall economic activity.
