ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday announced a Rs80 per litre reduction in the petroleum levy on petrol, following a day prices were raised by Rs137 per litre, stating the move would bring the petrol price down to Rs378 per litre.
While addressing the nation, the premier said, “I am once again addressing you at a challenging time, with a conflict ongoing in the Middle East. Oil prices have surged significantly in global markets, creating difficulties for the common man.
According to the sources, the petroleum levy rates were adjusted to limit the increase in diesel prices — which stand at RsRs520.35 — and its impact on transportation and freight costs.
The levy on petrol was raised to Rs160 per litre from Rs105, while it was reduced to zero on diesel from Rs55.
The prime minister underscored targeted support for transporters and small farmers.
“Motorcycle owners will benefit from a Rs100 per litre petrol subsidy, and small trucks will receive a monthly subsidy of Rs70,000, while large trucks will be given Rs80,000,” he said, adding that public transport operators will receive Rs100,000 per month, and to support freight vehicles, a subsidy of Rs100 per litre will also be provided.
He noted that the announced measures would also be implemented in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir, for which the government would provide all necessary resources.
He thanked all chief ministers for committing their resources, stating it was the need of the hour such a major challenge can only be tackled through national unity, cohesion and consensus.
The PM Shehbaz concluded that the country would soon see progress, prosperity and Pakistan’s overall development.
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