Auto rickshaw prices rise sharply in Multan amid fuel price volatility

The prices of auto rickshaws and loader rickshaws have increased significantly in Multan due to continued volatility in petroleum product prices, dealers said on Wednesday.

According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, local auto dealers said prices of both auto rickshaws and loader rickshaws have surged by Rs18,000 each over the past month, reflecting the direct impact of fluctuating fuel costs on the transport sector. 

Rickshaw dealers; representative Malik Azhar Sandila stated that further increases in petroleum prices could push vehicle costs even higher in the coming weeks.

He noted that the primary buyers of these vehicles belong to the middle-income segment, who rely on rickshaws and loaders for their livelihoods. 

The price of a loader rickshaw, which previously stood at Rs450,000, has now risen to Rs488,000, while the cost of an auto rickshaw has increased from Rs425,000 to Rs443,000.

Market observers say the rising cost of vehicles, coupled with fuel price uncertainty, is putting additional financial pressure on small business owners and transport operators, making it increasingly difficult for them to sustain their income.

Reporter: Syed Zohaib Bukhari