Unidentified attackers set ablaze four trailer trucks belonging to the National Logistics Cell (NLC) on Friday, as the All Pakistan Oil Tanker Owners’ Association (APOTOA) protested against the “atrocities” of the NLC authorities at the Port Qasim area.
A large number of protesters headed by APOTOA Senior Vice Chairman Shams Shahwani staged the demonstration against the NLC near the Pakistan State Oil (PSO) Terminal at Port Qasim.
Carrying banners and placards inscribed with slogans against the NLC, the demonstrators shouted slogans against the federal government’s strategic development organisation.
Warning suspension of oil supply to the upcountry areas, the APOTOA-led protesters blocked the National Highway for more than three hours, resulting in a massive traffic jam on the road leading to the Port Qasim Authority (PQA) and Pakistan Steel Mills.
During the protest, at least five oil-carrying trailers under the NLC contract were passing through the place when the enraged demonstrators torched four of the trucks while the driver of the fifth vehicle managed to keep away from the protesters.
Heavy contingents of police and private security personnel of the PQA arrived at the spot to disperse the protesters, reportedly resulting in injuries to around eight people.
Denying the reports, however, the police said that no one was injured while the law enforcers tried to control the law and order situation.
After negotiations with the authorities concerned, the protesting oil suppliers ended the road blockade and dispersed.
Talking with Pakistan Today, the APOTOA senior vice chairman alleged that the NLC authorities in connivance with some contractors were interfering in the award of contracts to the members of the oil tankers association. “The transporters will not tolerate such attitude from the NLC management,” Shahwani warned.
He also admitted the NLC trailers were set ablaze by the APOTOA-led protesters. “Yes, the protesters torched at least four oil trucks of the NLC.”
“We have been protesting for the past couple of months against the atrocities and interference of the NLC against the oil tankers’ association, depriving them of contracts,” Shahwani said.
“If the demands of our association are not met, the upcountry supply of oil, including edible oil, will be suspended from February 20 (Monday),” he warned.
