Bold claim: transport is the lifeblood of the economy, and the voices of the transport sector must be heard to keep trade moving smoothly. That’s the central message behind the Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry’s (LCCI) response to the government’s recent steps. The LCCI welcomes the decision to form a committee, pause the traffic ordinance, and tackle transporters’ concerns through constructive dialogue.
In a statement from LCCI leadership—President Faheem ur Rehman Saigol, Senior Vice President Tanveer Ahmed Sheikh, and Vice President Khurram Lodhi—the economic link between business and transport was emphasized. When the transport sector struggles due to unwarranted fines, legal actions, or bureaucratic pressure, the entire trade and industry ecosystem feels the impact. This is why the chamber has consistently advocated for the rights and relief of transport workers.
President Saigol underscored that transport forms the backbone of the economy. He noted that excessive penalties, ongoing FIRs, and administrative hurdles can choke the flow of goods and undermine overall commercial activity. The LCCI leadership detailed their push for immediate government action: amend the traffic ordinance, withdraw FIRs, reduce steep fines, and address other critical concerns.
The news that the government has paused the ordinance and formed a multi-stakeholder committee is a positive development, the LCCI group said. They stressed that durable solutions emerge from negotiation and mutual understanding rather than confrontation, a principle the chamber has championed from the start.
Looking ahead, the LCCI pledged ongoing support and expressed hope that committee meetings will yield constructive outcomes. The transporters and government alike must appreciate each other’s perspectives and craft a framework that streamlines traffic management while shielding the transport sector from needless burdens.
In the current economic climate, ensuring the smooth movement of goods-delivery vehicles is essential. Resolving transporter issues will help prevent disruptions in trade, thereby supporting the broader national economy.
The office-bearers at LCCI remain confident that ongoing talks among the government, transporters, and related agencies will produce positive results and a lasting fix for the sector. Such progress would contribute to stability in national trade and industry.
Source: Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
