PESHAWAR: Following the recent increase in petroleum prices, the Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance has announced a 3 percent hike in goods transport fares across the country.
The decision was confirmed by the Alliance President Malik Shehzad Awan during a media briefing.
Malik Shehzad Awan said the rising cost of fuel has directly increased operational expenses in the transport sector, making the fare increase unavoidable.
He emphasized that the adjustment was made out of necessity rather than choice, citing continuous increases in fuel, toll taxes, and other essential expenses.
Criticizing government policies, he noted that previous agreements and negotiations, including promises made during a nationwide strike by the federal minister for ports and shipping and the minister for communications, have not yet been implemented.
He also stated that commitments made by the Punjab government have failed to materialize.
The Alliance president warned that if demands are not addressed promptly, transporters could once again stage a nationwide peaceful strike.
Industry insiders said the fare increase could further affect the prices of essential commodities, potentially adding to the financial burden on ordinary citizens.
Economic experts also noted that higher transport costs are likely to translate directly into increased consumer prices.
The move is being seen as a last-resort measure by transporters to cover rising business expenses and reduce financial pressure on the sector.
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