PM Shehbaz announces transport subsidy to offset fuel price hike

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced a monthly subsidy of Rs100,000 for passenger buses and Rs40,000 for minibuses and vans to prevent an increase in fares amid rising petroleum prices.

According to details, a meeting chaired by the Prime Minister reviewed progress on the implementation of government subsidies on petroleum products in light of recent regional tensions. The meeting also included a briefing on fuel reserves and consumption across the country.

During the meeting, the Prime Minister stated that to ensure transparency, subsidy payments are being disbursed through digital wallets. He directed authorities to ensure immediate release of funds, adding that the process had already begun ahead of schedule.

He reiterated that due to the increase in petroleum prices, subsidies are being provided to the transport sector to prevent fare hikes. Additionally, to curb rising food prices, trucks will receive Rs70,000, large cargo vehicles Rs80,000, and delivery vans Rs35,000 per month in subsidies.

The Prime Minister further said that provincial governments have shared data of transport vehicles with the federal government to facilitate the subsidy process. He appreciated the Balochistan government for depositing its share for the national package and thanked Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti.

He expressed hope that other provinces would also contribute their shares soon, adding that a public relief package worth Rs129 billion has been provided over the past three weeks.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that the government cannot leave the public alone during difficult times, noting that petroleum levy has been reduced by Rs80 per litre to provide relief. He added that Pakistan Railways is also offering a subsidy of Rs6 billion to ensure that fares for passenger and freight trains are not increased.

He further stated that a planned 25% quarterly increase in toll tax has been withdrawn, reaffirming the government’s commitment to continue relief measures. The meeting was also informed that sufficient fuel reserves are available in the country to meet national requirements.