ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan has assured goods transporters that he will not allow the Motorway Police to issue unjustified challans, as the government moves to address key concerns following the suspension of a nine-day nationwide transport strike.
Speaking at a reception hosted by goods transporters after successful negotiations with the government, Aleem Khan said commitments made to the transport community would be honoured.
“I will not allow even a single unjust challan by the Motorway Police,” the minister said, while stressing that legitimate enforcement of traffic and load regulations would continue.
He urged goods transporters to comply with the axle load policy, saying overloading damages both vehicles and road infrastructure and ultimately increases costs for the transport sector itself.
Aleem Khan said the goods transport industry plays a critical role in Pakistan’s economy by moving food, industrial goods, raw materials and other essential supplies across the country.
He added that the government needed the cooperation of transporters to keep trade and supply chains moving efficiently.
The minister said he was prepared to personally visit highways and transport routes if necessary to assess problems faced by goods carriers and ensure that agreed measures were being implemented.
His remarks came after talks between the Pakistan Goods Transport Association and federal and provincial authorities resulted in the temporary suspension of the transporters’ nationwide strike.
The negotiations were held during a high-level meeting chaired by Sindh Governor Syed Muhammad Nehal Hashmi.
Following the talks, transporters announced that the nine-day strike would be suspended for 40 days, allowing goods vehicles to resume operations across the country while discussions with the government continue.
The move is expected to ease pressure on freight movement, supply chains and commercial activity after days of disruption.
The latest assurance from Aleem Khan places particular focus on two issues raised by transporters: enforcement by the Motorway Police and implementation of the axle load policy.
While promising protection against unjust fines, the communications minister made clear that transporters must also follow prescribed load limits to avoid damage to highways and heavy vehicles.
The coming 40-day period is expected to be crucial as the government and transport representatives work to resolve outstanding issues before the suspension period ends.
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