As Eid al-Fitr approaches, delivery riders in Karachi say they are working longer hours but earning less, as rising fuel prices eat into their daily income.

Many say the festival, usually a time for spending and celebration, has instead become a financial strain.

Fuel Prices Cut Into Income

Riders report that petrol prices have surged sharply in recent weeks, pushing up daily expenses.

For workers who depend on motorcycles, fuel now takes up a large share of their earnings, leaving little behind.

What was once a modest but stable daily income has been reduced significantly, forcing many to work longer hours just to keep up.

Gig Workers Face Growing Pressure

Most delivery riders operate without fixed salaries, benefits or job security.

Even as inflation has eased from previous highs, the cost of living remains elevated, with food, rent and utilities continuing to rise.

Many workers earn below the minimum wage, making it difficult to cope with sudden increases in fuel costs.

Eid Spending Takes A Hit

Eid is typically a peak period for earnings, but this year many riders say they are struggling to afford even basic festive expenses like clothes and gifts.

While delivery demand has increased, especially during Ramadan evenings, reduced commuting and fewer ride bookings have offset potential gains.

Longer Hours, Less Reward

Some platforms say they are adjusting pricing to support riders, but workers say the changes have not kept pace with rising costs.

For many, the festive season now means longer working hours rather than celebration, as they try to balance rising expenses with shrinking income.

(with inputs from Reuters)