KARACHI, Jan 16: The Karachi Transport Federation has criticized the increase in petroleum prices and said a second-time increase in a few days was uncalled for since oil prices have decreased by five per cent in the international market.

Rejecting the price-hike, the KTF leaders said that the action on the part of advisory committee was not based on facts as there was a marked decrease in crude oil rates internationally.

They maintained that the price-hike in petroleum products would adversely affect not only people but the transporters as well. Now they were left with no option except to withdraw the concessions agreed to in the past and revert to fares applicable in December 2001, they added.

They said if the previous transport fares were not restored, and the arrested drivers were not released, they would be compelled to take out a peaceful protest rally on Jan 19 and observe a wheel-jam strike on Jan 23.—APP