Complete shutter-down strike was observed in Malakand division on Tuesday against the imposition of taxes, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
Shops remained closed at Matta Chaparryal, Kalakot, Khawazakhela, Kalam, Madyan and other areas, while transport also remained mostly off the roads.
The strike call was given by the Malakand Trade Federation whose office-bearers demanded the immediate withdrawal of the taxes, arguing that Malakand division enjoyed a constitutionally and legally recognized tax-exempt status.
They said that economically underdeveloped region, which had also suffered from years of natural disasters, could not bear the burden of additional taxation.
The business community warned that the taxes would negatively affect both traders and the general public.
Leaders of trade bodies threatened the government with increasing the intensity of their protest in case their demands were not met.
On the other hand, JUI-F, ANP, doctors and lawyers have thrown their weight behind the strike.
Reporter: Omar Khatab Yousafzai