Heavy Fines Trigger Wheel-Jam Protest Across Punjab

Rawalpindi transporters have announced a wheel-jam strike on December 8 against heavy fines imposed under the amended transport and traffic laws, raising fears of a complete shutdown of public transport across Punjab. The Rawalpindi transporters strike is expected to disrupt daily travel for thousands of commuters.

Transport unions from both Rawalpindi and Islamabad have confirmed full participation in the protest. The chairman of the United Transport Association said that all bus terminals in the twin cities will remain closed on Monday.

Transport leaders warned that the protest could continue for an indefinite period if the government does not review the new penalties. They said the revised transport ordinance has created severe financial pressure on drivers and vehicle owners.

A transport union leader said it is unfair to impose a Rs. 2,000 fine on a motorcycle rider who earns around Rs. 25,000 per month. “These fines are beyond the capacity of working-class drivers,” he added.

Goods transporters have also joined the protest after the Pakistan United Transporters Action Committee announced its support, expanding the impact of the strike beyond passenger transport.

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Transporters strongly criticized the new laws passed by the Punjab Assembly, calling them unreasonable and damaging to the transport sector. They described the changes as an “economic threat” to small transport businesses.

Union leaders demanded that the government immediately withdraw the harsh penalties and hold talks with stakeholders. They warned that if no relief is given, the Rawalpindi transporters strike could escalate and severely affect public mobility across Punjab.