Saturday saw several major cities across Pakistan experience an unprecedented full shutter-down strike, including Murree, Peshawar and Pakpattan. Markets and businesses closed down, leaving streets deserted as traders and citizens took part in an unprecedented protest movement.
The strike was initiated by various trader associations and civil society groups as a response to rising inflation, heavy taxation, and growing economic instability. Protesters voiced their discontent over power outages, law and order issues, as well as what they perceived to be an inadequate response by government to small businesses’ needs as well as regular citizens.
Murree, a popular tourist destination, witnessed shopkeepers pull down their shutters early one morning, leaving usually bustling marketplaces quiet. Local hotel owners and transporters also joined in this strike action, leading to a significant decrease in tourism activity. “The costs associated with doing business continue to escalate daily,” stated an anonymous hotel manager from Murree.
Peshawar, the provincial capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, saw particularly severe strikes; all major shopping centers, markets, and wholesale bazaars remained closed; small peaceful rallies held by traders demanding immediate government intervention to restore order to their economy were held with small placards bearing slogans demanding immediate government action to stabilize it.
Pakpattan, known for its religious significance, also experienced a complete cessation of commercial activity. Religious groups, farmers and shop owners all supported the strike – reflecting growing discontent across many sectors of society – with local residents noting they hadn’t witnessed anything quite this cohesive in recent memory.
Similar scenes were also reported from other cities like Sialkot, Bahawalpur and parts of Lahore where markets remained closed and public transportation services were restricted for safety concerns. Furthermore, schools chose not to open on these occasions.
No matter the scale of protest, the strikes remained relatively peaceful. Authorities increased security measures in sensitive areas to avoid any untoward incidents; police could be seen patrolling main roads and marketplaces throughout the day.
Government officials have issued limited statements, encouraging dialogue and assuring traders that their concerns will be taken care of. Yet many traders remain doubtful; insisting that until concrete steps are taken to control inflation, reduce taxes, and ensure basic services, further strikes will continue.
The full shutdown strike serves as a stark reminder of Pakistan’s deepening economic challenges and highlights public calls for swift reforms.