ISLAMABAD: Protests have erupted nationwide in response to inflated electricity bills and increased taxes, with traders demanding the withdrawal of a recent hike in the average tariff on Monday.

The widespread frustration over these issues has led to countrywide demonstrations, with traders at the forefront. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) also joined the protests.

The traders’ community staged protests in cities including Islamabad, Lahore, Multan, Sukkur, Tando Allah Yar, Tulamba, Kasoor, Mailsi, Depalpur, Peshawar, Daska, Hasilpur, Liaquatpur, Haveli Lakha, and Bahawalnagar.

In Islamabad, the protest was led by the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) at Aabpara Chowk, where demonstrators demanded the government withdraw the increase in electricity tariffs and taxes. Protesters chanted slogans against the government and threatened to expand their demonstrations if their demands were not met.

In Lahore, protests took place in various areas such as Johar Town and Altaf Colony, where traders and residents blocked roads and chanted slogans against the government, demanding an end to prolonged load shedding and a reduction in electricity tariffs.

The Chamber of Small Traders in Multan organized a protest against the hike in electricity bills and taxes, with many traders demanding the government reduce tariffs and withdraw the tax increase.

In Sukkur, traders marched from Sarafa Bazaar to Ghanta Ghar Chowk, calling for a reduction in electricity tariffs and the withdrawal of increased taxes.

Residents of Tando Allah Yar also staged a protest, blocking roads and chanting slogans against the government.

The All-Pakistan Traders Association (APTA) had previously warned the federal government to abolish additional taxes by June 30 or face further actions. Ajmal Baloch, President of APTA, alongside other traders, made this announcement during a joint press conference in Islamabad, stating that the government has committed an injustice regarding electricity bills.