Karachi Goods Carriers Give Government 48 Hours to Cut Diesel Prices
The Karachi goods carriers have given the federal government 48 hours to reduce diesel prices and toll taxes or face a nationwide protest. The Karachi Goods Carriers Association (KGCA) announced the deadline after calling an emergency meeting of transporters in Karachi. Association leaders said rising fuel prices have sharply increased operating costs. They warned that transporters would adopt stronger measures if the government ignored their demands. The association believes immediate action is necessary to protect the transport sector and prevent further financial losses.
Transporters demand relief on diesel prices
KGCA President Malik Sher Khan urged the government to immediately reverse the recent increase in diesel prices. He said transporters already face heavy expenses because of rising prices of tyres, spare parts and vehicle maintenance. Therefore, many operators now struggle to keep their businesses running profitably.
Sher Khan also asked the government to fix diesel prices on a monthly basis. He argued that stable fuel prices would help transport companies plan their expenses and avoid unexpected financial pressure. In addition, he confirmed that goods transporters across Pakistan remain in close contact over the issue. The association said unity among transporters would strengthen efforts to secure relief from the government.
Protest may disrupt supply chains
KGCA General Secretary Nadeem Akhtar Arain warned that suspending goods transport would affect supply chains across the country. He said imports and exports through Karachi Port, Port Qasim and Gwadar Port could face delays. Moreover, the transportation of fuel, food, medicines and other essential goods could also suffer if transporters stop operations.
The KGCA said it has completed consultations with major transport organizations and will soon announce a final protest schedule. Meanwhile, the association urged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb to review the latest fuel pricing decision. It also called on the government to reduce toll taxes and address the transport sector’s concerns. Otherwise, transporters warned they would begin a stronger protest campaign after the 48-hour deadline expires. They said they prefer dialogue but remain ready to protect their livelihoods through collective action if negotiations fail.
