LAHORE (Web Desk) – Despite smooth movement of goods on motorways and highways, transporters have warned that devastating floods in Punjab are causing delays on other key routes.
The All Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance President, Nisar Hussain Jafri, said shipments from Karachi to Punjab and vice versa are facing delays of two to three days over the past three days. Normally, goods—including import and export consignments—reach their destinations in two to three days.
He added that the absence of diversion signs in flood-hit areas was forcing container trucks into dead-ends, wasting both time and fuel.
Fertiliser supply halted in riverine areas
Executive Director of the Fertiliser Manufacturers of Pakistan Advisory Council (FMPAC), retired Brig Shershah Malik, said fertiliser shipments through flood-affected regions such as Sutlej, Ravi, and Chenab had been suspended.
He warned that if floods persist, fertiliser distribution and usage will be affected, especially once waters cross Multan and enter Sindh by September 6. However, supplies via motorways and highways remain intact for now.
Vegetable and oil supplies under watch
Haji Shahjehan, President of Falahi Anjuman Wholesale Vegetable Market, New Subzi Mandi, reported a decline in onion supplies from Balochistan and potato stocks from cold storage due to rains and floods.
Meanwhile, Oil Companies Advisory Council (OCAC) Secretary General, Syed Nazir Abbas Zaidi, said oil supplies to upcountry regions have so far remained unaffected.
Medical supplies remain steady
Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (PPMA) Chairman, Tauqeer-ul-Haq, confirmed that medical supply chains have not yet faced disruptions.
Economic risks from floods
Analyst Mohammad Shahroz of Insight Securities warned that the recent flooding in KP and Punjab threatens agricultural output and supply chains, potentially reigniting food inflation. He estimated August 2025 headline inflation at 4.1%—lower than 9.6% a year earlier—but noted that rising food prices could add fresh pressure despite falling electricity and LPG costs.