Goods transporters announce fare hike; tanker operators to suspend fuel supply

KARACHI: Goods transporters on Friday said they would raise fares by up to 60 per cent, while tanker operators warned of a fuel supply suspension after the government raised fuel prices.

The Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance announced that it would increase freight charges by 60 per cent, saying increased petroleum prices would further surge inflation in the country.

“Due to government policies, millions are losing jobs. If the decision is not reviewed, the country’s transport system could come to a halt,” said Malik Shehzad, president of the alliance.

Separately, the Pakistan Public Transport Owners’ Association has called an emergency meeting after a shaprt rise in diesel prices.

The association said that, although fares cannot be increased in line with the recent rise in fuel prices, the government should clarify whether operators should continue their businesses.

In a separate development, the Oil Tanker Contractors Association threatened to suspend fuel supply from Saturday, demanding higher transport fares.

Association president Abdullah Afridi said tanker operations would halt due to unviable freight rates.

“We will not load any oil tankers from tomorrow. It is better to park the vehicles than incur losses,” he said.

He said that the suspension could disrupt fuel supply across the country including in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab.

Afridi said the association had been in contact with authorities for a week, including repeated appeals to the petroleum minister, but no progress had been made.

He warned that if their demands were not met, the association would launch a nationwide strike and protest. He urged the tanker owners to keep their vehicles off the roads.

Meanwhile, jet fuel prices have also surged, with prices increasing for the sixth time in a month.

Sources said the price rose by Rs40 per litre to Rs517.17, marking a record high.

Since March 1, jet fuel prices have increased by a total of Rs329.17 per litre, up from Rs188 at the start of the month. Aviation sources warned that rising fuel costs would significantly increase airline operating expenses, likely leading to higher domestic and international ticket prices.

“If the trend continues, passengers will face even more expensive air travel in the coming days,” aviation sources said.

Experts say rising fuel costs could further strain Pakistan’s fragile economy, driving up transport costs and inflation.