Lorry drivers protesting escalating fuel prices picketed along the port, barring lorries through, traders said.

The strike has entered its sixth day, with truckers demanding the government bring down the price of diesel.

Traders estimate millions of dollars worth of perishable goods have been stranded by the strike.

"I think the whole of Pakistan's exports, which is about 18 billion dollars (worth) a year, is affected ... Karachi is the only source of imports and exports for the country" Younus Khamisani, the former vice chairman of North Karachi Association of Trade and Industries said.

However, port officials say they are not facing problems related to incoming goods.

"The port's operation is not disturbed as yet. We have allocated extra land for the containers that pile up at the port everyday," said an official who declined to be identified.

The truckers said they would continue till their demands are met.

Noor Khan Niazi, president of the Karachi Goods Carriers' Association said: "It is the sixth day of our strike and the government doesn't seem serious. But we are not going to end it unless the government brings our expenses down."

Agencies