KARACHI: The sharp surge in fuel prices has triggered a wave of protests from transporters across the country, with industry stakeholders strongly opposing the resulting increase in passenger fares and freight charges.
The Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance announced a massive 60 percent increase in freight charges, citing the unprecedented rise in petroleum prices. Alliance President Malik Shehzad criticized the government’s decision, warning that it would fuel nationwide inflation and place an additional burden on businesses and consumers.
Speaking on the situation, Malik Shehzad said continuous fuel price hikes and what he termed flawed government policies could push millions of workers toward unemployment. He warned that transport operations could be suspended if the authorities fail to revise their decisions.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Public Transport Owners Association convened an emergency meeting following the sharp increase in diesel prices. The association expressed concern that simply raising fares in line with fuel costs is not a sustainable solution, stating that current conditions have made transport operations increasingly difficult to maintain.
Transporters argued that the rising cost of diesel has severely affected their ability to continue services, with some suggesting that halting operations may become inevitable if relief measures are not introduced.
The unrest comes after the government announced one of the largest fuel price hikes in the country’s history, with Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik and the finance minister confirming the increase during a joint press conference.
The situation has raised concerns about further inflation, as higher transport and freight costs are expected to impact the prices of essential goods nationwide.
