Transporters across Punjab launched a major wheel-jam strike today after weeks of frustration over what they call “unfair and excessive” e-fines issued by the provincial authorities. The strike severely affected public transport, leaving passengers stranded at bus stands and causing long queues on major highways across several districts in the province.
According to transport unions, thousands of vehicles remained off the roads as drivers protested the automatic fine system, claiming many penalties were issued without proper verification. They argued that the e-ticketing mechanism repeatedly generated fines even for minor violations, creating a heavy financial burden on small-scale transport owners already struggling with rising fuel and maintenance costs in recent months.
Leaders of the transport associations stated that they tried to negotiate with government officials several times, but no meaningful progress was made. They insisted that the authorities must review the entire e-fine structure, reduce penalty amounts, and establish a proper appeal system. Union representatives stressed that they were not against digital reforms, but demanded fairness and transparency before agreeing to resume operations.
The strike caused significant disruptions in Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, Gujranwala, and Rawalpindi, where commuters waited for hours without finding available transport. Many office workers, students, and patients heading to hospitals were left with no choice but to walk long distances or pay high fares to private taxis and rickshaws. The public expressed anger, saying both the government and transporters were ignoring the hardships faced by ordinary citizens.
Government officials, meanwhile, defended the e-fine system, calling it an essential step to improve road safety and ensure proper compliance with traffic laws. They maintained that the majority of the fines were accurate and issued only after verifying violations through camera evidence. However, the administration confirmed that talks were underway to resolve the matter and requested transporters to end the strike in the public interest.
As the day progressed, negotiations continued without any immediate breakthrough, raising fears that the wheel-jam protest could extend further. Transporters warned that they would not return to the roads until the government formally revises the policy. Citizens now wait anxiously, hoping for a quick agreement so daily travel can return to normal across Punjab.
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