Eid Without Joy: Rising Fuel Costs Hit Pakistan's Delivery Riders

In Karachi, delivery riders are grappling with longer hours and dwindling earnings as Eid al-Fitr nears. The rising fuel costs, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions affecting oil supplies, have hit these workers hard, leaving little for traditional festival celebrations.

Mohammad Mohsin, a 23-year-old rider, reports a significant drop in daily earnings from around 1,500 rupees ($5.38) to 1,100 rupees. The cost of petrol has surged to over 320 rupees per litre, putting further strain on these urban workers, who already earn below the monthly minimum wage without fixed pay or benefits.

Despite growing demand for delivery services during the Eid period, inflation, austerity measures, and reduced commuting have slashed their income. Although companies like foodpanda claim to adjust pricing to assist riders, their efforts fall short, forcing workers to make challenging choices over holiday spending.