The Punjab government declared free public transportation for all passengers across the province following a significant rise in petrol prices. The federal government raised petrol rates by Rs138 per litre, setting the new price at Rs458.40 per litre. Diesel prices also surged by Rs184 per litre, now costing Rs520.35 per litre.
In a detailed announcement, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif unveiled a relief package aimed at easing the burden on citizens. This initiative includes free access to public transport services such as the Orange Line, Metro Bus, Speedo buses, and Green Electric Buses throughout Punjab’s cities.
Additionally, the government introduced financial support measures for farmers, offering a Rs100 per litre subsidy on diesel. Registered motorcycle owners are also eligible for a Rs100 per litre subsidy on up to 20 litres of petrol. The chief minister emphasized that these steps align with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s national savings and austerity program being implemented in Punjab.
Maryam Nawaz acknowledged the difficult economic environment but stressed that providing relief to the public remains a top priority. She encouraged citizens to utilize public transport amid these extraordinary circumstances. Highlighting the global economic crisis exacerbated by ongoing conflicts, she noted Pakistan’s vulnerability due to its dependence on imported oil.
Meanwhile, Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman, leader of Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan, strongly criticized the fuel price hike, describing it as a “petrol bomb” inflicted on the public by the government. He announced plans for a nationwide protest movement, urging citizens, particularly the youth, to mobilize and demand change in response to the soaring fuel costs.
