Transport Strike in Karachi Halts Port Activity and Disrupts Supply Chain

18 Avr Transport Strike in Karachi Halts Port Activity and Disrupts Supply Chain

Complete Halt in Cargo Movement from Karachi Ports

Heavy goods transporters have suspended all operations from Karachi’s major ports, including KICT, SAPT, KGTL, and Port Qasim, in response to a regulatory enforcement drive on vehicle fitness and safety compliance. As of today, the movement of approximately 10,000 containers daily has been brought to a standstill.

Transporters have stationed their trucks at various depots and stands, resulting in massive congestion at port terminals and the accumulation of import containers. This action has halted cargo movement from both the ports and surrounding industrial zones, severely impacting the supply chain.

Industry Response and Transporters’ Stance

The transport community, led by the Karachi Goods Carrier Association (KGCA) and the Transporters of Goods Association (TGA), has voiced concerns over the immediate enforcement of safety regulations, including the mandatory installation of tracking devices, cameras, and safety grills on vehicles—costing up to PKR 300,000 per unit.

According to transport leaders, nearly 300 vehicles have already been seized, and they are requesting a grace period of three to six months to bring their fleets into compliance. While the associations have expressed their commitment to improved road safety, they have emphasized the need for a clear implementation timeline and constructive dialogue with the authorities.

Impact on Trade and Export Operations

Leading trade bodies such as the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) and the Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI) have raised alarms over the escalating crisis. With about 90% of cargo operations stalled, both importers and exporters are facing delays, missed schedules, and looming risks of demurrage charges in foreign currencies.

KCCI President Jawed Bilwani noted that if the strike continues, Pakistan’s export ambitions—already under strain due to global trade uncertainties—could suffer further setbacks. Cargo ships may be forced to depart without unloading or receiving goods, and manufacturing timelines could be significantly affected.

Prime Freight’s Position and Operational Updates

At Prime Freight, we are fully aware of the challenges our clients are currently facing due to the unavailability of transport vehicles et terminal access delays. Please know that:

• We are actively coordinating with logistics partners and monitoring the situation in real-time.
• Our team is working diligently to prioritize critical shipments and minimize disruptions wherever possible.
• Delays may be inevitable under current conditions, and we sincerely appreciate your patience and understanding.

Next Steps and Communication

We will continue to provide updates as the situation evolves and will notify you of any revised timelines or mitigation strategies. Our goal remains to maintain service transparency and support you throughout this disruption.

Should you require further information or assistance related to a specific shipment, please feel free to reach out to our team directly.