24 Oct 2023 | 01:45 PM UTC
Pakistan: Unionized rail employees reportedly holding nationwide strike, related protests as of Oct. 24
Unionized rail employees purportedly observing strike, related rallies in Pakistan as of Oct. 24. Disruptions reported. Exercise caution.
Event
Unionized workers employed by Pakistan Railways are reportedly staging a nationwide strike and related protest campaign on Oct. 24 to demand alleged unpaid dues. Strike participants have purportedly suspended an uncertain number of rail operations, including the Green Line Express services between Islamabad and Karachi and Rehman Baba Express services between the Karachi and Peshawar cantonments. The suspension is causing associated rail service delays and cancellations in some areas. Activists are also staging demonstrations in various locations, including the Peshawar Press Club and at some railway stations. The duration of the work stoppage is unclear.
Additional gatherings of varying types are likely to occur over the coming days. Potential gathering sites include railway stations, 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. Associated localized transport disruptions are likely. Localized business disruptions are possible if the labor action is prolonged.
Advice
Confirm rail service reservations in advance. Avoid any demonstration that materializes due to possible violence. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Allow additional travel time near gathering sites. Plan accordingly for possible localized business disruptions. Heed all official transport and security advisories.
