Pakistan Workers Warn of Nationwide Action Over Inflation

Labour groups, rickshaw drivers and railway employees staged a protest in Lahore against rising inflation and soaring utility costs, accusing the government of pushing working-class families into severe economic hardship.

Rana Shamjad, President of the National Rickshaw Union, rejected recent fuel price increases and demanded petrol rates be restored to pre-conflict levels. Transport workers are struggling to survive amid escalating costs of fuel and essential commodities, he said.

Rickshaw driver Muhammad Jameel said working people are returning home hungry despite spending long hours on the road. He pointed to rising prices of food, gas, electricity and other household essentials, arguing that the government's economic policies have disproportionately affected low-income citizens.

Railway employee Inayat Ali Gujjar said workers across different sectors face unprecedented financial pressure. Inflation has completely eroded purchasing power, leaving families unable to meet basic needs, he claimed. Gujjar called on the government to cut electricity, gas and petroleum prices while substantially increasing salaries and pensions.

Protesters said labourers, transport workers and public-sector employees have played a vital role in keeping the country functioning, yet their concerns continue to be ignored. They carried placards and raised slogans demanding relief from prolonged inflation and immediate measures to improve living conditions.

If demands are not addressed, the protest movement could expand to other cities, they said. Demonstrators blamed the ruling authorities for worsening economic conditions, saying public frustration is growing from rising prices and stagnant incomes.