Widespread support from Karachi traders, restaurants, and transport unions
ISLAMABAD/LAHORE/KARACHI:
A nationwide shutter-down strike by traders on Saturday led to significant closures across major cities, though Islamabad remained largely unaffected, with businesses operating as usual, according to Express News.
The protest was sparked by growing resentment over the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) enhanced enforcement powers, leading to a split within the trader community. Markets in Karachi, Lahore, Hyderabad, Quetta, Peshawar, and several other cities observed complete or partial shutdowns.
In Karachi, key commercial hubs — including Jodia Bazaar, the electronics and mobile markets, and the wholesale fruit and vegetable markets — remained closed. The strike received additional backing from the All Pakistan Restaurants Association and local transport unions.
Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) President Jawed Bilwani reiterated support for the protest, emphasizing that the government had yet to provide any written assurances. He cautioned that the protests could intensify if the authorities failed to address their demands in upcoming negotiations.
In Lahore, all major markets — such as Shah Alam Market, Akbari Mandi, Hall Road, Mall Road, and Anarkali — were completely shut down with full support from the city’s various trade bodies. The Lahore Chamber of Commerce also endorsed the strike.
Traders’ leader Haji Maqsood Butt hailed the strike as a success, warning of further action if the FBR continued to exercise what he described as “harassment” and “overreach.” “We stand united and will not bow to forced compliance,” he asserted.
In Hyderabad, key commercial areas like Anaj Mandi, Resham Bazaar, and Gul Centre observed full closures, while other areas saw partial participation.
Similar shutdowns were reported in Quetta, Peshawar, and other urban centers. Traders are demanding that the government roll back the newly introduced FBR powers and issue formal written assurances of policy amendments.
