ISLAMABAD : In a sharp response to the recent increase in petroleum product prices, Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance President Malik Shahzad Awan has announced a 4 percent hike in goods transport fares and warned of a potential nationwide strike if the government fails to address the sector’s concerns.
Awan condemned the fuel price hike, stating it is directly and severely impacting the transport industry. “The increase in petroleum product prices is condemnable and is directly affecting the transport sector,” he said.
He announced that effective immediately, goods transport fares will be raised by 4 percent to offset rising operational costs. Awan further alleged that due to what he called the government’s wrong policies, transporters are being forced to park their vehicles, which is subsequently disrupting the national supply chain.
The Alliance President also criticized a government subsidy of Rs 80,000 for truck and trailer owners, calling it insufficient and unable to cover the escalating expenses faced by the industry.
In a stern warning, Awan said that if the government does not act swiftly to improve the situation, transporters will have no choice but to go on a nationwide strike. “The responsibility for this strike will fall squarely on the government,” he cautioned.
