Goods Transporters Announce 5% Increase in Freight Charges After Fuel Price Hike
Goods transporters across Pakistan have announced another 5% increase in freight charges following a sharp rise in petrol and diesel prices.
The announcement was made by All Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance President Malik Shehzad Awan, who said rising fuel costs were putting additional financial pressure on the transport sector.
Diesel and Petrol Prices Rise Sharply
According to Malik Shehzad Awan, diesel prices have increased by approximately Rs20 per litre, while petrol has become Rs24 per litre more expensive over the past four days.
He further stated that fuel prices had already increased by up to Rs23 per litre between August 20 and September 7, adding to the operating costs faced by goods transporters.
Transporters have expressed concern that repeated fuel price increases are making it increasingly difficult to maintain existing freight rates.
Transporters Oppose Daily Fuel Price Changes
Malik Shehzad Awan also criticized the government’s decision to revise petroleum prices on a daily basis.
He recalled that during the nationwide transporters’ strike held from August 8 to August 17, the petroleum minister had assured representatives of the transport sector that fuel prices would not be adjusted on a daily basis.
According to the alliance president, transporters subsequently agreed to postpone their nationwide strike for 40 days after receiving assurances from the federal and provincial governments.
Fresh Strike Warning
The transporters have now warned that another nationwide strike could be launched if the government fails to fulfill the commitments made during negotiations.
Malik Shehzad Awan said the government had requested 40 days to address the sector’s concerns, but the agreed period is expected to end next week.
He added that transporters across the country could take further action if their concerns regarding fuel prices and other issues remain unresolved.
The latest freight rate increase is expected to add further pressure to transportation costs, which could also affect the movement and prices of goods across different parts of the country.
