KARACHI: Flight operations of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) remained suspended across the country for the third consecutive day on Thursday as employees of the national flag carrier continued their protest against the proposed privatization.
At least 27 flights at Islamabad’s Benazir International Airport were cancelled today, as PIA workers gathered at their offices in different countries to resume the protest.
The situation took an ugly turn yesterday when three protesters were killed and several more were wounded in clash with police and Rangers during a widespread agitation at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport.
Police and paramilitary Rangers deployed tear gas and water cannon against the protesters after they blocked the main entrance to the Jinnah International Airport around midday.
Gunfire later erupted, although the source of the shots was unclear. Both law enforcement agencies denied they had shot at protesters.
The PIA employees unions, after weeks of token strikes, urge the government to shun its proposals to complete the partial sale of the carrier by July; however the government denies any ‘privatization’ plan.
The move follows years of crushing losses and mismanagement that have battered the airline’s reputation.
Following the killing of PIA workers, the airline’s Chairman Nasir Jafar announced his resignation
Dear TNT Reader,
At The News Tribe, our mission is to bring you free, independent, and unbiased news and content that keeps you informed and empowered. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism, as we understand that we are a platform for truth.
Apart from independent global news coverage, we also commit our unique focus on the Muslim world. In an age marked by the troubling rise of Islamophobia and widespread misrepresentation of Muslims in Western media, we strive to provide accurate and fair coverage.
But to continue doing so, we need your support. Even a small donation of 1$ can make a big difference. Your contribution will help us maintain the quality of our news and counteract the negative narratives that are so prevalent.
Please consider donating today to ensure we can keep delivering the news that matters. Together, we can make a positive impact on the world, and work towards a more inclusive, informed global society.
Donate Monthly Subscription Annual Subscription
