Pakistan government hikes petrol, diesel prices by over Rs13 per litre
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The government increased petrol and diesel prices significantly on Friday.
- Petrol now costs Rs310.71 per litre, up by Rs13.18, and high-speed diesel is Rs323.30, up by Rs13.80.
- These price hikes impact private transport and the middle class, while diesel's rise affects freight costs.
The Pakistani government has raised the prices of petrol and high-speed diesel (HSD) substantially, effective Friday. Petrol now retails at Rs310.71 per litre, an increase of Rs13.18, while HSD has climbed to Rs323.30, up by Rs13.80. This marks a significant jump for petrol, which had previously peaked at Rs458.41 on April 3, having started its ascent from Rs266 in early March.
High-speed diesel, crucial for freight transportation, has seen its price come down from a high of Rs520.35 in April, following a surge that began after the US-Iran war on February 28. However, the current increase will still impact transportation costs.
Petrol, primarily used in private vehicles, affects the budgets of middle and lower-middle-class households. The Petroleum Division's announcement highlighted the new prices, noting that HSD is a major driver of inflation due to its widespread use in the transport sector and for large generators. Both fuels are significant revenue generators for the government, with substantial monthly sales.
The government raised the price of petrol by Rs13.18 per litre and that of high-speed diesel (HSD) by Rs13.8 on Friday.
Originally published by Dawn in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.