Rising fuel costs in Pakistan have once again pushed transport fares into the spotlight, after the Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance announced an increase in freight charges following a hike in diesel prices. The move has raised concerns among businesses and consumers, as petroleum prices transport fares directly affect the cost of goods across the country.
Transport Alliance Responds to Fuel Price Hike
The president of the Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance, Malik Shehzad Awan, strongly criticised the federal government’s decision to raise petroleum prices, particularly diesel. He announced a four percent increase in transport fares, saying the decision was unavoidable under current economic conditions.
According to Awan, diesel is the backbone of the goods transport sector, and any increase in its price immediately raises operational costs. He said transporters were left with no option but to pass on a portion of the burden to customers, as continued price hikes have made it difficult for operators to survive.
He added that higher petroleum prices do not only impact transporters but affect every Pakistani, as increased transport fares eventually lead to higher prices of essential goods. He warned that the gap between government commitments and actual implementation was creating frustration within the transport community.
Strike Warning and Government Commitments
Malik Shehzad Awan reminded authorities that during a recent protest and strike, the federal government had assured transporters of relief in petroleum prices and resolution of several long-standing issues. However, he said those assurances have not been fulfilled so far.
He also pointed to disagreements between the Ministry of Communications and the motorway police over commitments made earlier. According to the transport alliance, the lack of coordination between institutions has further complicated matters for goods carriers operating on national highways.
Awan warned that if agreements reached with the federal and Punjab governments are not honoured, transporters may be forced to call another nationwide strike. He stressed that any economic losses resulting from such action would rest entirely with the authorities.
The federal government recently increased the price of diesel by Rs11.30 per litre, pushing it to Rs268.38 per litre. Meanwhile, petrol prices have been kept unchanged at Rs253.17 per litre for the next 15 days.
Economists note that repeated increases in fuel prices often have a ripple effect across supply chains. As petroleum prices transport fares rise, inflationary pressure on food and daily-use items is expected to grow, further straining household budgets. Authorities have yet to issue an official response to the transport alliance’s latest warning.
