ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan government is moving ahead with a targeted fuel subsidy programme for motorcyclists following the recent sharp increase in petrol prices.
According to sources, the proposed scheme will offer subsidised petrol of up to 20 litres per month, primarily aimed at low-income users. Initially, the facility is expected to be limited to 70cc motorcycles.
Under the plan, eligible users may receive petrol at a reduced rate of Rs100 per litre through a quota-based system. Rickshaw drivers are also likely to be included in the initiative.
To streamline the process, a mobile application is being developed with support from the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, allowing users to register and verify their eligibility digitally.
The proposal is expected to be presented to Shehbaz Sharif for final approval.
Sources said only registered 70cc motorcycles will qualify for the subsidy, while higher-capacity bikes and unregistered vehicles will be excluded from the scheme.
Fuel Price Pressure
The move comes after a significant increase in fuel prices. Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik recently announced that petrol prices have been raised to Rs458.40 per litre.
He attributed the hike to rising global oil prices amid ongoing regional tensions, saying the government had to take difficult but necessary decisions.
The minister also highlighted austerity measures initiated by the government, including reductions in cabinet salaries, and stressed the importance of national unity in addressing the economic challenges.
