JI to block KKH over rising fuel costs

Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Hazara has announced a peaceful protest and blockade of the Karakoram Highway (KKH) on August 7 across Hazara Division against the recent increase in petroleum prices and rising inflation.

The announcement was made by JI Hazara Ameer Abdul Razzaq Abbasi in line with the nationwide protest call given by Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman.

Speaking at a press conference at the Abbottabad Press Club, Abbasi said peaceful demonstrations would be staged at key locations in Abbottabad, Mansehra, Battagram, Pattan and Dasu, with people from all walks of life expected to participate.

The press conference was attended by Deputy Ameer Hazara Amjad Khan Jadun, Hazara Qayyim Javed Akhtar, Trade Wing President Raja Imran, youth leader Malik Tanveer Awan and other party office-bearers.

Abbasi warned that if the government failed to address the public's demands, the party would launch the next phase of its protest movement, including a march on Islamabad.

He said repeated increases in petrol and diesel prices had become unbearable for ordinary citizens.