Transporters across Pakistan have warned the government of nationwide protests and road blockades if the continuous increase in fuel prices is not reversed, especially as global oil prices have seen a notable decline.
The warning comes amid expectations of a fresh hike from July 1, with petrol likely to increase by approximately Rs 11.43 per litre and high-speed diesel by Rs 14.86 per litre, despite international crude oil prices dropping significantly.
Transport unions say these repeated price hikes are pushing their businesses to the brink. In many cities, they are already charging passengers an additional Rs 5 to 10 per ride, as previous minor fuel price cuts were never translated into official fare reductions.
Transporters argue that despite global oil prices falling, the government continues to keep local prices high—primarily to meet tax and revenue targets. They claim the burden is being unfairly passed onto the people and transport sector, with no consideration for relief.
They have threatened that if the government does not withdraw the proposed hike, they will launch a protest campaign that includes blocking roads, halting transport services, and calling for a wheel-jam strike, potentially disrupting daily commutes and supply chains nationwide.
Transporters are demanding either a reduction in fuel prices or a government-approved increase in transport fares to offset rising operational costs. Otherwise, they say, the government should prepare for serious disruptions across the country in the coming days.
