The All Pakistan Goods Transport Owners Association on Thursday announced a 10% increase in transport fares following the recent rise in petroleum product prices. Association President Muhammad Awais Chaudhry said transporters had jointly decided to raise fares as rising diesel prices had significantly increased their operating costs. He criticised the frequent increases in diesel prices, urging the government to revise fuel prices at least every 15 days instead of making frequent adjustments.

Chaudhry said diesel had increased by around Rs18 per litre over the past 17 days, placing an additional burden on transporters and consumers. He called on the government to immediately reduce diesel prices and fully implement the written agreement reached with transporters during their recent strike. The association had deferred its strike for 40 days on the basis of the agreement.

While some of its demands have been addressed, several key provisions remain pending, he said. Chaudhry warned that transporters could resume their strike if the government failed to implement all provisions of the agreement. A day earlier, the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) issued a notification announcing a one-day increase in petroleum prices. Petrol was raised by Rs3.40 per litre to Rs367.75, while diesel rose by Rs6.72 to Rs392.67 per litre.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)