Traders in Islamabad have announced a two-hour strike and citywide protests for tomorrow (Thursday), against high electricity prices, taxation policies and what they describe as pressure from government departments.
Shops across the capital will remain closed from 3pm to 5pm, while traders will hold demonstrations outside different markets.
The main protest will take place at Aabpara Chowk, despite Section 144 being in force in Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
The protest call was announced by All Pakistan Anjuman-e-Tajiran leader Ajmal Baloch during a press conference at the National Press Club.
Traders say rising electricity costs and the current tax system are putting heavy pressure on businesses. They have also complained about tax notices, repeated visits to government offices and what they call harassment by officials.
Their demands include cheaper electricity, better security, improved parking facilities and a simpler tax payment system.
Ajmal Baloch also called for a mobile-based tax payment system so traders can pay taxes without repeatedly visiting government offices.
The traders also raised concerns over restrictions on shopping bags, saying authorities should first take action against manufacturers and smugglers before penalising shopkeepers and consumers.
Traders have warned that if their demands are not accepted, the protest could be expanded into a full shutter-down strike, and they may also march towards the Prime Minister’s House.
