Islamabad: Pakistan’s federal government has raised the price of high-speed diesel by Rs 2.78 per litre for the next fortnight, bringing the new rate to Rs 272.77 per litre, according to Dawn News.
Meanwhile, petrol prices remain unchanged at Rs 264.61 per litre.
Earlier, reports had suggested that the government was considering a larger increase in petroleum product prices, with High-Speed Diesel potentially rising by Rs 4.79 per litre for the upcoming fortnight. ARY News cited sources indicating kerosene could increase by Rs 3.06 per litre and light diesel by Rs 3.68 per litre.
Preliminary calculations for the revised rates have been completed, and a summary is expected to be sent to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for final approval, ARY News reported. The Ministry of Petroleum, in consultation with the Ministry of Finance, will present the pricing proposal, which, once approved by the Prime Minister, will be implemented starting September 16.
In July, Pakistan witnessed widespread public outrage following another surge in petrol and diesel prices, with citizens criticizing the government for ignoring the economic hardships faced by the poor.
A local resident, Imran, voiced his frustration over the latest hike, questioning the government’s pricing policy. “I don’t understand one thing. Petrol prices are falling in international markets, yet our prices keep going up. In just one month, petrol prices have increased twice. Where are the poor people supposed to go? Prices of K-Electric, gas, and petrol are all rising,” he said.
He added, expressing helplessness, “The government is not considering the poor. Petrol prices should decrease when international prices fall, as happens in other countries.”
