More than five million Pakistanis have registered for the government’s petrol subsidy scheme within days of its launch, prompting authorities to quickly adjust the program based on overwhelming public feedback.
The massive enrollment figures emerged as the federal government announced key changes to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Special Relief Scheme for fuel, making it easier for motorcycle and rickshaw owners to access subsidized petrol.
In a significant policy shift, the government has eliminated the controversial requirement that forced beneficiaries to purchase a minimum of five litres in a single transaction. Under the revised rules, eligible citizens will now receive a weekly token worth Rs500 that can be redeemed for fuel in any quantity—a change designed to help those who cannot afford or do not need five litres at once.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar chaired a National Steering Committee meeting that reviewed implementation progress and public concerns raised during the scheme’s first 48 hours nationwide. The adjustments were approved after officials recognized that the five-litre minimum was creating hardship for small vehicle owners.
The government has also raised the vehicle age eligibility limit from 15 to 20 years for motorcycles, three-wheelers, and rickshaws, expanding the pool of potential beneficiaries significantly.
For owners of four-wheelers with engines up to 800cc, the existing arrangement remains unchanged. These beneficiaries continue to receive one 10-litre token every 10 days, totaling three tokens monthly.
Officials emphasized that the full Rs500 token value will reach consumers directly, with fuel stations prohibited from applying any deductions or service charges.
The subsidy scheme rollout coincides with modest relief at the pump. The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority announced a reduction of 84 paisas per litre in petrol prices, bringing the new rate to Rs389.28 per litre. Diesel prices saw a larger cut of Rs2.63 per litre, now standing at Rs412.12.
Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema led a separate coordination meeting attended by Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik, IT Minister Shaza Fatima, the Minister of State for Finance, and representatives from provincial governments and relevant institutions.
The rapid registration numbers—crossing five million in just days—underscore the acute financial pressure Pakistani households face from high fuel costs. Transportation expenses ripple through the economy, affecting everything from food prices to daily commutes.
By responding quickly to public feedback and removing barriers to access, the government appears determined to ensure the subsidy reaches those who need it most, particularly owners of smaller vehicles who form the backbone of Pakistan’s urban and rural transportation networks.
