Goods Transporters Raise Freight Rates by 40% in Three Days

RAWALPINDI: Goods transporters have increased freight charges by up to 40% within three days following a sharp rise in petroleum prices, adding to inflationary pressure across the country.

According to reports, container freight from Karachi to Peshawar has risen to more than Rs900,000 due to higher diesel costs, while goods transport charges have increased by as much as 40% over the past three days.

Stop-to-stop fares have also been raised by Rs60, while inter-district and local transport operators have reportedly increased fares by up to 27%, pushing up the prices of food items, vegetables and fruits.

The rise in fuel prices has also prompted many citizens to reduce their use of cars and shift to motorcycles. Motorcycle sales on instalment plans have reportedly increased by 22%.

Leaders of the All Pakistan Clerks Association, Punjab Teachers Union and bar associations have strongly protested the situation and demanded immediate relief for employees in grades 1 to 16.

Taking notice of the fare increases, the Secretary of the Regional Transport Authority Rawalpindi has summoned transporters to a meeting on Monday to finalise a revised fare schedule.

The official has also ordered strict action against transporters who increase fares without approval.

The sharp increase in freight and passenger fares is expected to further raise transportation costs and place additional pressure on household budgets and prices of essential commodities.