Transporters agree not to raise fares amid fuel price hike

LAHORE: Punjab transporters have agreed not to increase fares after successful negotiations with the provincial government, offering relief to commuters amid rising fuel costs.

The decision was taken following talks between the Punjab government and representatives of transport unions, including the Pakistan Mini Mazda Goods Transport Association, which also agreed to maintain existing fare levels.

Punjab Transport Minister Bilal Akbar welcomed the move, saying it was encouraging that transporters were standing with the government during a difficult economic period.

“We appreciate the transporters’ decision not to raise fares,” Akbar said, adding that free travel facilities on metro buses, Speedo buses and electric buses would continue.

Separately, the All Pakistan Petroleum Pump Owners’ Association dismissed reports of a nationwide strike, calling them baseless.

Association Vice Chairman Nauman Butt said that there was no truth to claims that petrol pumps would shut down between May 1 and May 5.

He assured that fuel stations across the country would remain open and operational.

“Supply of petroleum products will continue without interruption,” Butt said, urging the public not to pay heed to rumours.

He added that petrol pump owners did not support any strike and that all outlets were functioning as usual.