The federal government has hiked the price of petrol and high-speed diesel, marking another blow to household budgets already strained by persistent inflation. Effective midnight, petrol prices rose by Rs2.07 per liter, while high-speed diesel saw an increase of Rs2.99 per liter.
These adjustments follow the latest fortnightly review by the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA). The move comes as global oil prices fluctuate, forcing the government to pass the cost directly to the pump.
For the average commuter, the increase is more than just a number on a display board. It hits the cost of logistics, public transport, and the daily commute. With this hike, petrol now sits at a price point that continues to squeeze the middle class, leaving many questioning the government’s reliance on fuel levies to bridge its fiscal gaps.
“We have no choice but to adjust according to international market trends,” a petroleum division official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. He pointed to the volatility in the Middle East as the primary driver behind the rising import costs.
Critics, however, argue that the government’s reliance on petroleum development levies remains the real culprit. While global prices have seen some stability, the domestic tax structure ensures that any international dip is rarely felt at the local level.
The timing of the announcement—coming late in the evening—has become a standard practice, minimizing immediate public backlash. Yet, the economic impact is immediate. Transport associations have already hinted at potential fare hikes, citing the increased cost of diesel for heavy vehicles.
As the government keeps its eyes on fiscal targets and IMF requirements, the burden remains firmly on the consumer. The new prices are effective immediately at all retail outlets across the country.
