Pakistan Suffers Rs190 Billion Daily Loss Due to Protests: Finance Minister

Web Desk — Pakistan’s economy is reeling under massive daily losses of Rs190 billion due to road closures and shutdowns caused by opposition-led protests, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb revealed on Sunday.

The protests, led by the opposition party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) are part of a “do-or-die” march towards Islamabad’s D-Chowk. The demonstrations aim to challenge the “illegal” imprisonment of Imran Khan and other party leaders, alleged electoral misconduct during the February 8 general elections, and the contentious 26th Constitutional Amendment.

Speaking to Geo News, Aurangzeb highlighted the economic strain caused by the disruptions. “Tax collections decline, exports face hurdles and business activities are paralyzed due to the protests,” he stated.

The Ministry of Finance estimates a gross domestic product (GDP) loss of Rs144 billion daily, with an additional Rs26 billion lost due to reduced exports. The protests also deter foreign direct investment, causing daily damages of Rs3 billion.

The provinces are also severely impacted. Aurangzeb pointed out daily losses of Rs26 billion in the agricultural sector and over Rs20 billion in the industrial sector. “The IT and tech sectors have been particularly hard-hit by the disruptions, further exacerbating the economic fallout,” he added.

The minister emphasized the financial burden on the government to maintain security and restore order. The opposition protests have added to the strain on an already fragile economy, sparking concerns among experts and businesses alike.