Rawalpindi: The Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) has expressed grave concern over the disruption in the supply of petroleum products, medicines, perishable goods, and dairy items due to the ongoing blockade of heavy traffic routes in Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
RCCI President Usman Shaukat stated that the suspension of supply chains is already causing shortages of essential commodities and may soon trigger a surge in prices. “Markets are witnessing reduced availability of critical goods, while the risk of inflation is increasing due to logistical disruptions,” he said.He emphasized the urgent need to allow the movement of pharmaceutical vehicles, noting that they carry life-saving medicines, including insulin and vaccines. “Any delay in the delivery of such critical supplies can have serious consequences for public health,” he added.
The Chamber further warned that the continued disruption may also affect fuel supply to key locations, including Islamabad and Peshawar airports. Traders and goods transporters have urged the district administration to immediately reopen major routes for cargo movement, cautioning that prolonged blockades will further strain supply chains and escalate prices.RCCI President Usman Shaukat appealed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to take immediate notice of the situation and ensure the restoration of transport routes without delay.“The business community is deeply concerned. Prompt and decisive action is essential to prevent further economic disruption and safeguard the availability of essential goods, particularly medicines and food items,” he concluded.
