KARACHI, March 27: Speakers at a demonstration on Tuesday demanded that the ban imposed on trade union activities in Pakistan Railways be lifted so that workers’ rights could be protected.

Holding placards and banners inscribed with their demands, the demonstrators chanted slogans against the ban and in support of their demands.

The demonstration was organised in connection with the International Railways Day by the Pakistan Railways Workers Federation at the Press Club. Labour leaders Arif Mushwani, Qadir Zaidi, Umer Daraz, Manzoor Razi, Shaikh Majeed and others also spoke.

They demanded that the contract system be abolished and salaries be enhanced in the railways.

They also demanded restoration of all facilities and benefits that were available to employees earlier; withdrawal of restrictions imposed on hiring; and recruitment of the children of railway employees.