PESHAWAR, Pakistan — A significant protest has unfolded in northern Pakistan, leading to the blockage of a vital highway due to public outrage over persistent power outages, according to officials on Tuesday. This disruption is having a substantial impact on bilateral commerce with China, as well as compelling tourists to seek alternative, lengthier routes to access the area.

The protest began over the weekend as a peaceful rally but quickly escalated when demonstrators in Aliabad, situated in the Gilgit Baltistan region, obstructed the main Karakoram highway on Monday, revealed government representative Faizullah Faraq. He further mentioned that discussions are ongoing with the protesters in hopes of persuading them to discontinue the blockade.

Residents in Pakistan, a nation plagued by energy shortages, frequently endure extended power outages, particularly during the summer months. However, citizens of Aliabad report facing alarming electricity cuts lasting up to 20 hours, especially in the midst of the current harsh winter conditions.

This protest occurs at a critical juncture as Pakistan is attempting to enhance Chinese investment to rejuvenate its struggling economy through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). This initiative aims to bolster bilateral trade and improve the transportation infrastructure, specifically constructing and upgrading roads and rail systems that connect China’s Xinjiang region to Gwadar port on the Arabian Sea.

CPEC is integral to China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which strives to facilitate global trade through international infrastructure development.

Imran Ali, who serves as President of the Gilgit Baltistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, informed local media outlets that around 700 trucks laden with various goods bound for China are stranded at a dry port due to the highway closure. This blockade is simultaneously hampering the flow of supplies to and from the region throughout Pakistan.