The Karachi Goods Carriers Association (KGCA) has strongly opposed the government’s latest increase in diesel and petrol prices. The association has also rejected the existing fuel pricing mechanism, warning that transporters may launch a nationwide strike if authorities fail to reverse the decision within 24 hours.
The warning comes amid growing concerns over rising transportation costs and the financial pressure facing the freight industry. According to the association, transport operations across Pakistan could come to a standstill if the government does not address their demands.
KGCA representatives also announced plans to close their offices and coordinate protests with transport organizations from across the country.
Transporters Say Rising Fuel Costs Are Hurting the Industry
Addressing a press conference, KGCA President Malik Sher Khan, Vice Chairman and Vice President Ayaz Khan, and General Secretary Nadeem Akhtar Arain criticized the recent fuel price increase.
Nadeem Akhtar Arain said Pakistan’s transport sector serves as the backbone of the national economy. However, he argued that the industry continues to face neglect despite its critical role.
He said repeated increases in diesel and petrol prices have pushed transporters into a serious financial crisis. As a result, many businesses are struggling to manage their operating expenses.
He further claimed that international oil prices have declined, yet the benefit has not reached transporters or the public. Consequently, freight costs continue to rise across the country.
Association Raises Concerns Over Government Policies
The association argued that current government policies have created additional challenges for both the transport industry and the wider economy.
According to Nadeem Akhtar Arain, increasing fuel prices have made transportation more expensive, affecting businesses that depend on freight services. Therefore, transporters believe immediate policy changes are necessary to prevent further financial losses.
The association maintained that stable fuel prices would help reduce pressure on transport operators and improve overall economic activity.
Transporters Allege Harassment During Operations
The KGCA also raised concerns about the treatment of transporters in different parts of the country.
Nadeem Akhtar Arain alleged that drivers and vehicle owners operating in Punjab, Balochistan, Azad Kashmir, and other regions face unnecessary inspections, heavy fines, alleged demands for bribes, and harassment by various government departments.
He claimed these actions have disrupted transport operations and increased the difficulties faced by drivers and business owners.
According to the association, such practices have become a routine challenge for those working in the freight sector.
Association Urges Government to Review Fuel Prices
The Karachi Goods Carriers Association called on the prime minister, the finance minister, and the relevant authorities to immediately reconsider the recent increase in diesel and petrol prices.
The association also urged the government to resolve the issues confronting transporters and introd2wuce emergency measures to support the country’s freight industry.
Transporters warned that if their concerns remain unaddressed within the next 24 hours, they will suspend goods transportation nationwide, close association offices, and launch coordinated protests with transport organizations across Pakistan. They believe timely government action can help prevent disruption to the country’s transport network and avoid a wider economic crisis.
