Pakistani consumers are bracing for another hit to their wallets as the country’s fuel regulator announced a fresh increase in petrol prices, pushing the cost of the widely-used fuel above Rs390 per litre.
The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority issued its latest pricing notification revealing that petrol will now cost Rs390.66 per litre following an increase of Rs3.26. The move comes as a blow to millions of commuters, small business owners, and families already struggling with elevated living costs.
In a slight offset, high-speed diesel—critical for heavy transport, agriculture, and industry—has been reduced by Rs1.01 per litre, bringing its price down to Rs399.34. While the diesel cut offers marginal relief to the logistics and farming sectors, it remains significantly more expensive than petrol and continues to drive up costs across supply chains.
The mixed pricing adjustment reflects ongoing volatility in global oil markets and currency fluctuations that directly affect Pakistan’s import-dependent fuel economy. Every rupee change at the pump ripples through the broader economy, influencing everything from rickshaw fares to vegetable prices in local markets.
For ordinary Pakistanis, the petrol hike means higher daily commuting expenses, increased costs for school runs, and more expensive ride-hailing services. Small traders and delivery workers operating motorcycles and compact vehicles will feel the pinch most acutely, as fuel represents a major portion of their operating costs.
The government’s Petrol Relief Scheme remains in place to cushion the impact on lower-income vehicle owners. Under the programme, motorcycle and Cingchi rickshaw operators can access a substantial Rs100-per-litre discount on up to 20 litres monthly. Owners of small cars with engines up to 800cc qualify for discounted fuel on up to 30 litres per month.
To benefit from the scheme, eligible citizens must register by sending an SMS with their CNIC, vehicle registration details, province, and registration date to 9771. Once approved, users receive a confirmation and can generate a token by texting TOK to the same number before visiting participating petrol stations. The token must be presented to claim the discounted rate, with a confirmation message sent after each transaction.
Despite the relief programme, many Pakistanis remain concerned about the cumulative effect of repeated fuel price adjustments on household budgets. Transport costs influence nearly every aspect of daily life, from the price of groceries to school fees and medical expenses.
The latest price changes come amid broader economic challenges facing Pakistan, including inflation pressures, external debt obligations, and efforts to stabilize the rupee. Fuel pricing remains one of the most politically sensitive economic levers, with each adjustment closely watched by the public and opposition parties alike.
As global oil prices continue to fluctuate and the rupee remains under pressure, further adjustments in the coming weeks appear likely, keeping Pakistani consumers on edge about their transportation and living costs.
