KARACHI:
Despite the recent cut in petrol and diesel prices, by Rs22 per litre, the general public has yet to see any relief in transport fares. This discrepancy is a glaring example of the van mafia’s unchecked influence. Just three weeks ago, when petrol prices hovered around Rs406 per litre, the van fare from Larkana to Sukkur was Rs450. But as of May 31, even after a significant cut in the fuel price, van operators continue to demand the same Rs450. When I confronted a driver regarding the official price reduction, my concerns were dismissed with a claim of ignorance.
It is fundamentally unjust that transport fares are hiked instantaneously when fuel prices rise, yet they remain stagnant when prices fall. The relevant authorities should intervene, enforce fare regulations and hold this transport mafia accountable in order to ensure that the government’s relief measures actually reach the citizens.
Abdul Samad Memon
Larkana
