Hattar transporters warn of wheel-jam strike over higher taxes

HATTAR: Transporters working in Hattar Industrial Estate held a protest against what they called an excessive tax burden and government fiscal measures, warning that they could launch a wheel-jam strike if their demands are not addressed.

The demonstration was led by office-bearers of the All Pakistan Mini Mazda Association, including Hazara Division President Muhammad Banaras Khan, Hattar President Malik Asim, Senior Vice President Malik Sajid Nikyal, General Secretary Tariq Shah and other representatives. Protesters opposed recent increases in toll taxes, vehicle transfer fees, token taxes, permit charges and other levies, describing the measures as economic pressure on the transport sector.

Addressing the gathering, Banaras Khan said transporters, whom he described as a key part of the country’s industrial, commercial and agricultural activity, were already facing rising fuel costs, higher vehicle maintenance expenses and increasing spare parts prices, while freight rates had largely remained unchanged. He said additional taxation in such circumstances would further weaken the sector and make it increasingly difficult for operators to continue their businesses.

Banaras Khan said the transport community would continue what he described as a constitutional, legal and democratic struggle for its rights.

"We have been left with no option but to park our vehicles in protest," he said.

He also called for the withdrawal of cases registered against transporters, including those filed under Section 289, and demanded an end to what he termed unnecessary legal action against members of the community. He urged the government to extend protection, respect and business-friendly policies to transporters.

Speaking at the protest, Malik Asim criticised the government for significantly increasing toll tax, token tax, vehicle transfer fees and permit charges without consulting transporters. The protesters reiterated that if their concerns were not taken up, they would intensify their response through a wheel-jam strike.