Protests and road blockades in Sindh have halted economic activity. Khalid Tawab calls on the Prime Minister for urgent intervention.
KARACHI: The business community has raised alarm over the ongoing protests and road blockades across Sindh, calling on the Prime Minister to take urgent steps to end the unrest, which is seriously affecting economic activity, supply chains, and fuel distribution across Pakistan.
Khalid Tawab, Regional Chairman of the United Business Group (UBG), voiced deep concern over the week-long protests led by lawyers and political activists that have crippled trade and disrupted the transport of essential goods, especially fuel. He highlighted the grave risk this poses to industries, imports, exports, and everyday life.
“The situation is getting worse and if not resolved, it will severely impact our exports and imports,” said Khalid Tawab. “We urge the Prime Minister to intervene and facilitate the movement of tank lorries and cargo amid road blockades in Sindh.”
According to logistics and industry insiders, nearly 800 oil tankers are currently stuck due to the road closures, especially along key routes connecting Karachi to the rest of the country. The blockade has created fears of an impending fuel shortage in upcountry regions, including Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as well as within Sindh itself.
Road Blockades Threaten Pakistan’s Trade and Industry
Karachi, being the country’s main commercial hub and home to its largest ports, plays a crucial role in national and international trade. Disruption in the movement of goods from Karachi can lead to cascading effects across the economy. The business community fears a major slowdown in export and import operations, loss of foreign exchange, and serious delays in fuel and goods delivery.
Khalid Tawab further urged the Government of Sindh to immediately instruct local administration and law enforcement to ensure safe passage for stranded tankers and cargo transporters.
“We request the Government of Sindh to issue necessary directives and ensure the security and free movement of oil tankers throughout the province,” he added.
Immediate Government Intervention Needed
Business leaders warn that if the situation is not controlled promptly, Pakistan could face a fuel crisis, higher transportation costs, reduced industrial productivity, and increasing pressure on local businesses already grappling with inflation and currency depreciation.
Tawab stressed that the protests, although constitutional, should not be allowed to hinder the country’s economic lifeline, especially the logistics sector, which is vital for trade continuity, fuel supply chain stability, and national development.
The UBG calls upon the Prime Minister to personally intervene and ensure dialogue is initiated with the protestors while also keeping critical routes open for goods transport to avoid further economic losses.