ISLAMABAD – The federal government is exploring possible measures to provide Rs100 per litre subsidy to motorcyclists in response to recent massive rise in petroleum prices.
Advisor to the Finance Minister, Khurram Shehzad, stated that the subsidy would be limited to deserving individuals only. He clarified that the relief will not be available to all motorcyclists.
Speaking to a private TV channel, he explained that modern technology could help identify eligible beneficiaries. Motorcyclists’ registrations can be verified via a dedicated mobile app, and data from the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) will provide additional guidance.
Provincial governments, which maintain comprehensive motorbike ownership data, have proposed that subsidies could be offered within this sector.
However, not all motorcyclists will qualify, particularly owners of expensive or heavy motorcycles, who are considered capable of bearing rising fuel costs.
Khurram Shehzad also noted that many countries have seen petroleum prices rise sharply, in some cases by 70 to 80 percent. He said Pakistan has adopted a relatively cautious approach, avoiding immediate steep increases.
He added that if global conditions improve and oil prices drop, the government will seek to provide relief to the public.
Petrol Prices in Pakistan
Massive blow for Pakistanis as the government sharply increased fuel prices in response to soaring global oil costs. Petrol has jumped to Rs458 per litre from Rs321.17, a staggering Rs137 increase, while diesel has surged from Rs335.86 to Rs520 per litre, a massive Rs184.49 rise.
Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik made announcement in a press conference alongside Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb. At the start of the briefing, Malik expressed gratitude to President Asif Ali Zardari, provincial chief ministers, and allied party leadership for their guidance during what he described as a “critical time,” emphasizing the challenges Pakistan faces amid rising global oil prices.
