The suspension of goods transport in Rawalpindi and Islamabad has disrupted supply chains, leading to shortages of essential food items and fuel in the twin cities.
Transporters and traders have urged authorities to reopen roads for goods vehicles, warning that continued restrictions could worsen the situation.
A spokesperson for the Oil Tanker Contractors’ Association said the halt in tanker movement has already affected petroleum supply for the past two to three days.
He added that fuel supply vehicles for airports in Islamabad and Peshawar remain stranded at depots, raising concerns about potential disruption in aviation fuel supply.
The Rawalpindi Goods Transport Association said no goods have reached grain, fruit, or vegetable markets since road closures began on April 19.
The suspension has also impacted daily wage workers, with transport terminals lying idle and labourers returning home without work.
Transporters have proposed allowing goods vehicles to use motorways, similar to public transport, to maintain supply lines.
However, they warned that transport costs may increase if this alternative route is used.
Traders cautioned that if the suspension continues, shortages could extend to Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, which rely on Rawalpindi for supplies.
Meanwhile, the Fruit and Vegetable Traders Association warned of rising prices as existing stock in warehouses begins to run out.
Market activity in Islamabad’s main fruit and vegetable hub has already slowed significantly due to a lack of fresh supplies.
Officials from the Regional Transport Authority said the issue has been taken up with the Punjab government, and goods transport operations will resume once approval is granted.
Authorities are under pressure to restore supply routes quickly to prevent further shortages and price hikes in the region.
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