Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan has Directed a high-level delegation to resolve issues with Goods Transport Alliance as a Zoom meeting regarding the issues of the Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance (PGTA) with the National Highway Authority (NHA) and the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) was held today under the chairmanship of Federal Minister for Communications, Abdul Aleem Khan. Minister of State for Finance, Bilal Kiani, also participated in the meeting.
The meeting was attended by Secretary Communications, Chairman NHA, Inspector General Motorways, officials from Pakistan Customs, and other concerned officials. Representatives of the Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance briefed the Federal Minister on challenges faced by transporters, including the axle load limit, increase in toll taxes, and issues related to motorway policing and enforcement.
It was informed that the Goods Transport Alliance has been observing a strike for the eighth consecutive day, resulting in disruption to the movement of goods and adverse effects on economic activity.
Taking serious notice of the situation, the Federal Minister emphasized that prolonged strikes cause losses to all stakeholders, particularly those associated with the transport sector. He reiterated the government’s commitment to resolving all legitimate concerns of the transporters through dialogue and consultation.
Earlier a 5 member Committee was formed under the Chairmanship of the Minister to resolve the issues that have resulted in the strike. The Federal Minister has directed the high-level delegation to immediately leave for Karachi to continue negotiations with the Goods Transport Alliance and reach an amicable and timely resolution.
The Federal Minister assured that issues related to driving license issuance, road safety, and accident prevention would be addressed on priority, stating that those who lose their lives in road accidents are “our own children,” and their safety remains a collective responsibility.
He further informed that work is underway to expand the Northern Bypass from six to eight lanes, and assured the provision of parking facilities at KPT and Port Qasim to facilitate goods transporters.
Emphasizing infrastructure protection, the Federal Minister stated that axle load regulations are in the long-term interest of goods transport owners, as they help ensure road safety and prevent damage to national highways.
Representatives of the Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance expressed satisfaction over the progress of negotiations and assured the Federal Ministers of their full cooperation, reaffirming their preference for constructive engagement.
