Pakistan: Nationwide rail workers' strike and related protest campaign likely to persist through at least late October /update 1

Unionized workers employed by Pakistan Railways will likely continue their ongoing nationwide strike and related protest campaign through at least late October to denounce allegedly delayed salary payments. In recent days, the strike has disrupted rail operations in multiple parts of the country, with hundreds of participants staging demonstrations on railway tracks. The protests have notably delayed Green Line services between Islamabad and Karachi, as well as Rehman Baba Express services between the Karachi and Peshawar cantonments. Activists have also held related demonstrations at other locations, including the Peshawar Press Club and train stations. Strike organizers could cancel the labor action with little-to-no notice if they perceive that the government will meet their demands.

Additional gatherings of varying types, including sit-ins and rail blockades, are almost certain to occur over the coming days. In addition to rail lines and train stations, other potential gathering sites include Pakistan Railway offices, as well as prominent government buildings, press clubs, public squares, and thoroughfares. Such rallies will probably attract dozens of participants. Authorities will likely maintain an increased security presence near such gatherings and may move to disperse overly disruptive crowds. Clashes between activists and police cannot be ruled out. Localized disruptions to vehicular transport are likely. Localized business disruptions are possible if the labor action is prolonged.