Public transport operators in Karachi have announced an indefinite strike from June 18, protesting what they describe as excessive traffic challans and heavy fines imposed on buses and other public transport vehicles.
Decision by Karachi Bus Owners Association
The Karachi Bus Owners Association said it had decided to suspend transport services across the city, citing concerns over stricter traffic enforcement and increasing financial penalties. Association President Farooq Ahmed urged transporters to keep their vehicles off the roads from June 18 in support of the protest. He warned that the strike would continue until the authorities addressed the association’s concerns and accepted its demands.
Impact on Commuters
The planned suspension of services is likely to disrupt the daily commute of thousands of residents who depend on public transport for travel across the city. The announcement comes weeks after Karachi traffic police introduced measures aimed at curbing wrong-way driving.
Background of Traffic Enforcement
In May, DIG Traffic Pir Muhammad Shah described the growing incidence of traffic moving against the flow as a serious issue and said officers had been equipped with modern devices to improve enforcement and challan issuance. He also announced plans to establish a Special Traffic Flow Unit on major roads to improve traffic discipline. According to officials, 36 locations across Karachi have been identified as hotspots for wrong-way traffic violations.
