By Punjab’s province-wide transport strike has officially ended, but uncertainty continues as conflicting statements emerge regarding the enforcement of the Motor Vehicle Ordinance 2025. The strike had brought nearly all local and intercity transport to a halt, stranding thousands of passengers across major cities and disrupting daily life for several days.
Why Transporters Launched the Strike?
Transporters initiated the strike in strong opposition to the new Motor Vehicle Ordinance 2025, which they say imposes excessively strict penalties. Key concerns highlighted by transport unions included:
- Significantly higher traffic fines
- FIRs (First Information Reports) for certain violations
- Strict enforcement without industry consultation
For many vehicle owners and drivers, the new rules threatened to increase operational costs and expose them to criminal proceedings for routine traffic issues.
Transporters Claim Relief Was Promised
On Monday, transport union representatives announced that they were ending the strike. According to them, government officials had agreed to:
- Temporarily suspend FIRs and heavy fines
- Begin a formal review process of the ordinance within 15 days
Transport leaders stated that they called off the protest “in good faith,” believing the government had acknowledged their demands and signaled readiness for dialogue.
Government Denies Any Suspension of the Ordinance
However, shortly afterward, confusion grew when Punjab Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb publicly denied the claims made by transporters. In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), she clarified that no clause of the Motor Vehicle Ordinance 2025 had been suspended, calling the reports “false and baseless.”
She emphasized that public safety will not be compromised, and that the ordinance remains fully in force.
Uncertainty for Drivers and Transport Owners
The contradictory statements have created significant uncertainty within the transport sector. Since the government has not issued any formal notification regarding the suspension of fines or FIRs, many drivers fear they may still face legal action despite resuming operations.
Transport unions are urging the Punjab government to issue a clear policy update to avoid further confusion on the roads. Until then, transporters remain unsure whether the penalties under the Motor Vehicle Ordinance 2025 are actively being enforced.
What Happens Next?
With transport services restored but policies unclear, the situation remains tense. The next 15 days will be crucial as transporters expect discussions to begin. A formal review, if initiated, could reshape the enforcement approach of the Motor Vehicle Ordinance 2025 and potentially ease the burden on Pakistan’s transport community.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on currently available reports and official statements. Policies and government notifications may change, so readers are advised to verify updates from official sources.
