Archive · 2 Jun 2025
Gilgit-Baltistan Protests Block Key China-Pak Highway
People in Gilgit-Baltistan, a region in Pakistan, are upset with the government's trade policies.
They've blocked a major road that connects Pakistan and China.
The problem started when the government stopped clearing imported goods, leaving many stuck at the port.
This is costing businesses a lot of money.
The protesters, including traders and local leaders, want the government to let their goods through and help their businesses.
They feel ignored and hurt by the government's actions, which they say are hurting their economy.
Thousands in Gilgit-Baltistan are protesting against the federal government, blocking the Karakoram Highway.
The protest, led by traders, stems from the suspension of customs clearance for imported goods.
At least 257 import consignments are stuck at Sost Dry Port, causing financial losses.
Protesters demand immediate clearance of stranded goods through an amnesty scheme.
The protest highlights economic hardship and neglect by the federal government.
- Who
- Traders, residents, and civil society members
- What
- Blocking the Karakoram Highway to protest federal government's trade policies.
- When
- For three days, starting on Friday, June 2, 2025
- Where
- Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan
- Why
- Protesting trade policies and the suspension of customs clearance at Sost Dry Port.
Protesting Traders/Residents
Federal Government
Trade Policies
Protesting Traders/Residents
Federal government's trade policies are exploitative and economically damaging.
Federal Government
Federal government policies are necessary for the country.
Customs Clearance
Protesting Traders/Residents
Demand immediate clearance of stranded goods via one-time amnesty.
Federal Government
Not explicitly stated in the article.
Government Response
Protesting Traders/Residents
Accuse the federal government of not addressing demands.
Federal Government
Local PTI leaders attempted to persuade protesters to end the protest.
- Location
- Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK)
- Highway Blocked
- Karakoram Highway
- Protest Organizer
- Pak-China Traders Action Committee
- Trigger
- Suspension of customs clearance at Sost Dry Port
- Protesters
- Importers and exporters, traders, civil society members
- Target
- Federal government of Pakistan