Pakistan announces petrol subsidy for motorcycles, small cars amid oil price surge

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a new petrol subsidy for motorcycles, rickshaws and small cars on Sunday, aiming to ease the burden of rising fuel costs on the public. The relief, worth up to Rs3,000 a month, comes as global oil prices surge amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.

How much petrol subsidy will Pakistan give motorcycle and car owners?

Under the new petrol subsidy, motorcycle, rickshaw and other two- and three-wheeler owners can claim Rs100 per liter on up to 20 liters a month, worth a maximum of Rs2,000. Owners of small cars with engines up to 800cc qualify for the same per-liter rate on up to 30 liters, reaching a maximum monthly relief of Rs3,000.

"The government fully understands the burden being placed on the public due to rising oil prices," Sharif said, assuring citizens that they would not be left alone during the difficult period. The Prime Minister's Office confirmed the per-liter rate and monthly caps for both vehicle categories.

How can Pakistanis register for the petrol subsidy?

Registration for the petrol subsidy began Sunday, the Prime Minister's Office said, with details of the process to be shared through a public awareness campaign. Sharif thanked provincial governments for cooperating in providing information about motorcycles, rickshaws and small cars needed for registration.

When will the petrol subsidy take effect across Pakistan?

The scheme will be implemented in Islamabad Capital Territory during the night between Monday and Tuesday. Its rollout across the rest of Pakistan, including Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, will begin during the night between Wednesday and Thursday.

The announcement comes as the government seeks to protect low-income and ordinary vehicle users from the impact of higher fuel costs and volatility in international oil markets amid heightened tensions in the Middle East.