Transport costs across Pakistan have increased after goods carriers announced a nationwide fare hike in response to rising fuel prices, adding further pressure on businesses and consumers already struggling with inflation.
Read More: Transporters raise fares after fuel prices surge nationwide
According to transport representatives, Pakistan Mini Mazda Goods Transport has raised freight charges by 10 percent following the recent surge in diesel prices. The decision affects cargo movement across major cities and intercity routes.
Central President of the association, Haji Sher Ali Chaudhry, said the sector had avoided increasing fares on May 1 at the government’s request, but persistent increases in fuel costs left operators with no choice but to revise rates.
He explained that rising operational expenses, particularly due to frequent adjustments in petroleum prices, have significantly impacted transport businesses, making continued operations financially difficult without revising charges.
The new fare structure has been implemented immediately across the country, according to the association.
The move comes shortly after a sharp increase in petrol and diesel prices, which had already raised concerns among consumers and economists about a fresh wave of inflation.
Public transport operators have also signaled similar fare adjustments, warning that higher fuel costs will inevitably be passed on to passengers. They argue that increased diesel prices directly affect bus, truck, and goods transport operations, leading to higher costs for goods movement nationwide.
Economists caution that rising freight charges are likely to contribute to higher prices of essential goods, including food items, construction materials, and household products, as transportation costs form a significant part of supply chains.
With inflation already affecting household budgets, the latest fare hike is expected to intensify financial pressure on the public, particularly lower and middle-income groups.
Read More: Freight transport fares drop 40% after fuel price cut in Pakistan
Stakeholders have urged authorities to review fuel pricing policies and consider relief measures to stabilize transport costs and prevent further inflationary impact on the economy.