The business community in Peshawar, Pakistan, organized a protest against the government’s smart lockdown measures. Led by the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Traders’ Organisation, shopkeepers and businessmen demanded a rollback of the lockdown, reduced petroleum prices, and actions to address inflation. The protesters criticized the government for the adverse impact of the lockdown on businesses and the public.
While addressing the demonstrators, leaders of the organization expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the situation. They highlighted that the lockdown restrictions, such as early closure of shops, have not alleviated the energy crisis or eased the burden on consumers. The protesters emphasized that the rising fuel prices have made essential goods unaffordable for the common people.
The business community issued a warning of escalating protests if their demands are not met by the government. They vowed to persist in their efforts until the government reverses what they perceive as a detrimental policy. Earlier, transporters in Peshawar and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa also protested against the surge in petroleum prices, demanding immediate price reductions and highlighting the challenges faced by the transport sector.
