Pakistan: Transport workers strike in southern Balochistan in late May

Disruptions due to an ongoing strike by the All Makran Transport Union are likely to persist in parts of southern Balochistan, including the Panjgur, Kech, and Gwadar districts, through May. The union began a strike on May 22 in response to what they alleged were unnecessary security checks along the N10 and N25 highways. The strike, which was ongoing as of May 24, has reportedly resulted in disruptions to passenger and freight traffic in Gwadar and at the Iran-Pakistan border. A protest camp has been established in Bhawani. Striking workers have threatened to escalate their action if their demands are not met, including blocking road routes.

Security officials are likely to deploy to protest locations. If striking workers block road routes, officials could seek to disperse them. Disruptions to passenger travel and freight deliveries are likely to persist for the duration of the action.