Lahore Traders On the association staged one of the biggest-ever protests against high power tariffs, oppressive taxes, and a lack of genuine support from authorities. As a last straw, traders closed all shops in Lohari Gate Medicine Market with an ultimatum: meet our demands, or we will sit outside the Chief Minister’s House.
Lockdown of Shops at Lohari Gate Medicine Market
Traders shut down their shops at Lohari Gate Medicine Market during a protest attended by thousands. They carried placards and banners to express anger over the government’s failure to address their concerns while chanting anti-government slogans in unison through the market’s streets.
The Traders’’ Ultimatum
Apart from locking up their stores, these merchants gave authorities an ultimatum: meet our demands or face a sit-in outside the Chief Chief Minister’s office. They viewed this as an escalation in their protest, reflecting the seriousness of the various issues they have raised throughout different stages. They have also hinted at encircling government offices if ignored.
Voices of the Traders: Key Concerns
According to the president of the Lahore Traders Association, one of the main reasons behind this demonstration is excessive taxation imposed by governments on businesses. He said these taxes are unrealistic and beyond the means of small traders because they do not earn enough money to pay such large amounts.
The Burden of Expensive Electricity
High power tariffs were another issue highlighted during protests. Traders claimed that electricity has become unaffordable due to its skyrocketing prices, adding more financial pressure than already existed.
A Call to Rethink Government Policies
Traders believe that current measures implemented under the so-called business-friendly scheme are killing rather than supporting their enterprises, according to President LTAA, who stated that if the administration continues down this path, things may eventually get out of control. Hence, it is compelling business people to take extreme steps, like sitting outside CM’s house until something positive happens.
A Stand-off That Could End Any Minute
The protest of the Lahore Traders Association is just one sign of increasing tension between local traders and the government. Traders have threatened to close markets indefinitely and stay overnight outside the Chief Minister’s House until their government acts fast and defuse this situation before it gets out of hand. Otherwise, everything might change not only for Lahore but also for all of Pakistan in general.
