Strike call given by Qaumi Tajir Ittehad (QTI) attracted minimal response from the traders community of Lahore against the increasing prices of petrol, gas and diesel as only shutters of three markets Akbari Mandi, Azam Cloth and Brandreth Market were closed on Friday. Banners were displayed on the main roads and main trade centres in favour of the strike by pro-strike trader organisations.
While majority of the markets of Lahore including Mall Road, Hall Road, Anarkali, Liberty, Jail Road, Icchra, Defence, Krishan Nagar, Urdu Bazar and Ferozepur road were remain opened showing dissatisfaction from the strike. On the other hand President of the Anjuman-e-Tajiran Pakistan Haji Maqsood Butt, while addressing a press conference called the strike a complete failure.
He said that it was not the right time for the strike. He also said that from March 1st prices of petroleum products will come down and they have also asked the government to take practical steps to control inflation and dearness. He said that they have asked the government to take practical steps to solve the energy and water crisis.
He said Anjuman-e-Tajiran is the only representative body of the traders and they will not allow any body to use it for the political gains. He also said that if the government fails to solve all these issues then they would give the strike call after consultations with the traders of all the four provinces.