Malik Shehzad Awan, President of the Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance, has announced a 3% increase in freight charges nationwide in response to the recent rise in petroleum product prices.

Speaking to the media, Malik Shehzad Awan strongly criticized the federal government’s decision to increase fuel prices, calling it “regrettable” and warning that the impact would be felt by every Pakistani. He explained that higher fuel costs directly increase operational expenses for the transport sector, making fare adjustments inevitable.

“Transporters are under extreme pressure due to the policies of both the federal and Punjab governments,” he said, adding that the authorities have failed to take meaningful measures to address sector concerns. He accused the governments of “cornering transporters” while neglecting solutions for persistent challenges.

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The announcement comes amid growing frustration within the transport industry, which has repeatedly warned that escalating fuel prices would inevitably affect logistics, supply chains, and the overall cost of goods across Pakistan. Analysts say the 3% fare increase could trigger further price adjustments in the supply of essential commodities, indirectly impacting consumers nationwide.

Malik Shehzad Awan called for urgent dialogue between transporters and government officials to find practical solutions, stressing that ongoing inaction could further destabilize the sector and burden ordinary citizens.