Chairman of All Pakistan Solvent Extractor's Association (APSEA) Mian Muhammad Ahmed warned that the reduction in truck lifting capacity would result in a substantial increase in freight expenses, representing a significant portion of total import costs. Additionally, it would lead to a twofold increase in the cost of freight for incoming oil seeds and meal, causing a projected rise of Rs. 12 to Rs. 14 per kilo in edible oil prices and Rs. 8 to Rs. 10 per kilo in chicken prices.
The government faces a potential surge in terms of foreign exchange (forex) in fuel costs if it persists with its 100% axle load control regime (ALCR) on motorways and highways. This concern has been highlighted by the All Pakistan Solvent Extractor's Association (APSEA) to Caretaker Commerce Minister Gohar Ejaz. APSEA underscored the severe economic repercussions that could arise if the axle load control regime remains in effect.
According to the statement, the new axle load regime substantially diminishes the lifting capacity of each truck (by 40% on 22-wheelers and 100% on 10-wheelers). This reduction is anticipated to lead to a 50–60% surge in freight prices.
The implications of this surge in fuel costs are profound, particularly in the context of the Edible Oil Extraction Industry. The Chairman of APSEA has expressed deep concern over the potential negative impact on industrial activities, emphasizing the heightened cost of doing business and the inevitable rise in food inflation.
Given the significant repercussions on both the industry and the broader economy, APSEA appeal to the government to reconsider the 100% Axle Load Control Regime. The recent decision to enforce this regime without relaxation, effective from November 15, 2023, poses a serious threat to the economic stability of the Edible Oil Extraction Industry and related sectors.
The government has enforced the axle load control regime without relaxation and without taking other stake holders into confidence making a lame excuse of menace of overloading and its adverse impact on our motorways
Government has focused on the implementation of a 100 percent axle load control regime (ALCR) on motorways and highways in Pakistan.
The decision was made to enforce the axle load control regime without relaxation from November 15, 2023, and achieving 100 per cent compliance would require cooperation from all stakeholders.
Federal Secretary Communications Sher Alam Mehsud emphasised the impact of overloading on National Highways, causing significant damage and financial losses for the government. The meeting outlined plans for offloading extra cargo under Motorway Police supervision, with the assurance of constructing warehouses by the National Highways Authority to secure the offloaded goods. The full implementation of the axle load control regime on national highways nationwide will involve imposing heavy fines on vehicles exceeding the prescribed weight, accompanied by strict legal action.
IG Motorway Police Sultan Ali Khowaja highlighted the presence of 210 weigh stations, including 14 mobile ones, on motorways and highways across the country. Ensuring 100 per cent compliance will require additional manpower and logistical support, for which cooperation from the Ministry of Communications is essential. The federal secretary communications pledged full support to the National Highways and Motorway Police for the successful implementation of the 100 per cent ALCR. He also emphasized that no concessions would be given to goods vehicles after November 15, 2023, and violators would face strict legal action and heavy fines. Transporters and drivers were urged to adhere to the prescribed axle load.
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