TRADERS in Pakistan went on strike today, shutting down their businesses in all major cities and urban areas to protest at a rise in electricity costs and new taxes imposed on shop owners.

The government of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has steadily raised electricity prices since Pakistan last month struck a deal with the International Monetary Fund for a new $7 billion loan (£5 billion). 

The higher cost of living and price hikes have triggered widespread discontent and drawn protests.