KARACHI: The Sindh government has unveiled a comprehensive relief plan, including Rs.3 billion in financial aid for small-scale farmers and targeted subsidies for public transport, aiming to mitigate the economic strain caused by soaring global fuel prices.
During a high-level meeting at the Chief Minister’s House, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah reviewed the implementation of a new public transport subsidy program designed to keep fares affordable and sustain the transport infrastructure across the province amid rising fuel costs.
Officials briefed the CM on the recent surge in petrol and diesel prices driven by international geopolitical tensions, which has led to increased transportation expenses and decreased ridership. Shah emphasized that the government would not let the financial burden fall on ordinary citizens.
“We will ensure that the rising fuel costs do not become a hardship for the common man,” Shah stated. “This targeted subsidy aims to keep public transport affordable and operational throughout Sindh.”
Public Transport Subsidy DetailsThe subsidy involves both federal and provincial contributions, supporting over 10,800 vehicles operating on 224 routes that serve nearly 1.9 million passengers daily. The program is projected to cost approximately Rs. 2.15 billion per month, with funds disbursed via a digital, app-based platform. This system will verify route permits, vehicle fitness, and bank details, ensuring transparency and efficiency. Payments will be made directly to operators, with regular inspections and passenger feedback mechanisms in place to monitor progress.
Shah’s administration highlighted safeguards such as OTP verification, fuel benchmarks, and periodic reviews to control expenses and ensure accountability.
Rs.3 Billion Relief for Small FarmersIn addition, the government approved a Rs. 3 billion subsidy aimed at approximately 366,000 small farmers, particularly those cultivating between one and 25 acres of land. This initiative is designed to offset the increased costs of diesel during the wheat harvesting season and support rural livelihoods.
The subsidy will be launched immediately, starting from 9 April 2026, to provide urgent relief to farmers. Shah described small farmers as “the backbone of the rural economy,” emphasizing that this targeted support would enable them to continue their operations without financial hardship.
Moving away from broad-based subsidies, the Sindh government aims to implement more focused and effective assistance programs. The meeting concluded with directives to expedite the rollout of both the transport and agricultural support measures, ensuring swift and coordinated implementation to benefit those most affected.
