Goods Transporters Announce 15% Increase in Freight Charges Following Fuel Price Hike
Karachi: The Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance has announced a 15% increase in freight charges after the government’s latest revision in petroleum product prices.
Transport sector representatives say the increase is intended to offset higher operating costs resulting from rising fuel prices.
Transporters Cite Rising Costs
Speaking in Karachi, Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance President Malik Shahzad Awan said transport operators are facing increasing financial pressure due to higher fuel costs and other business expenses.
He stated that many transporters are finding it difficult to continue operations under the current economic conditions.
Calls for Government Relief
The alliance has urged the government to consider measures aimed at reducing operating costs for the transport sector.
Among its recommendations are:
- Reviewing toll tax policies.
- Reconsidering withholding tax on transport businesses.
- Evaluating existing traffic penalty structures.
Transport representatives believe such measures could help reduce financial pressure on operators and support the movement of goods across the country.
Fuel Prices Recently Increased
The freight rate revision follows the government’s latest increase in petroleum prices.
According to the official notification:
- Petrol increased by Rs. 5.44 per litre, bringing the price to Rs. 316.15 per litre.
- High-Speed Diesel (HSD) increased by Rs. 31.05 per litre, reaching Rs. 354.35 per litre.
- Kerosene oil also rose by Rs. 34.33 per litre, with the new price set at Rs. 276.66 per litre.
The revised fuel prices came into effect on July 18 and will remain applicable until the next official review.
Possible Impact
Industry observers note that higher freight charges could increase transportation costs for goods, potentially affecting supply chains and business operating expenses. The overall impact will depend on future fuel price movements and broader market conditions.
