In a dramatic turn of events, commercial activities have ground to a halt in parts of Pakistan on this Saturday, as the business community and transporters stage mass protests against the skyrocketing electricity bills and surging fuel prices.
This nationwide outcry comes on the heels of the caretaker government’s decision to significantly increase power tariffs and fuel prices, pushing the people of Pakistan to their limits. The temporary government, led by Prime Minister Anwaar Kakar, now finds itself grappling with the dire consequences of food and fuel inflation, with public dissatisfaction teetering on the edge of violent protests throughout the South Asian nation.
In a powerful display of unity against these unprecedented economic hardships, various trade organizations and political parties, including the Jamat e Islami, have declared a comprehensive “shutter down” and “wheel jam” strike, set to take place today, September 2.
While Karachi traders kick-started the protests with a strike on Friday, the Lahore Traders Association swiftly followed suit, declaring that markets would remain closed in Pakistan’s second-largest city. Calls for civil disobedience have gained significant traction as businessmen and distressed citizens alike find themselves unable to cope with the burden of hefty bills, and they are fervently urging the government to take immediate action.
The protesting masses have one clear demand: an end to the provision of free electricity and substantial relief measures for the populace, given that the bills they have received are surpassing their monthly incomes.
In a parallel move, the transporters’ community has joined the chorus of dissent by announcing a wheel-jam strike this Saturday. Their booking offices will remain shuttered in response to the alarming surge in fuel prices, which have reached unprecedented heights.
