The citizens of Pakistan have expressed disappointment over the government’s decision to keep petroleum prices unchanged ahead of Eid. Many were expecting a reduction in prices, hoping for financial relief amid rising inflation and economic hardships.
On Saturday, the government announced that it would maintain the prices of all petroleum products at their current levels for the next fortnight, starting March 16, 2025. According to a notification issued by the Finance Division, the price of petrol will remain at Rs255.63 per litre, while high-speed diesel will be priced at Rs258.64 per litre. Additionally, kerosene will continue to be available at Rs168.12 per litre, and light diesel will stay at Rs153.34 per litre during the same period. These prices will take effect from March 16, 2025, leaving citizens frustrated over the lack of expected relief.
Earlier, reports suggested that the government might lower petroleum prices by up to Rs14.16 per litre due to a decline in global oil prices and premiums, as estimated by oil marketing companies (OMCs). However, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chose to keep petroleum prices unchanged, directing the financial benefit to be passed on to the citizens through reductions in electricity rates instead.
In a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, Shehbaz Sharif confirmed that while petroleum prices would remain the same, the government was actively working on a plan to provide relief to citizens by lowering electricity costs. He emphasized that maintaining petroleum prices was part of a broader strategy aimed at easing financial burdens in other areas, particularly through a reduction in electricity prices.
The Premier reassured citizens that a comprehensive plan to reduce electricity rates was in its final stages and would be announced in the coming weeks. He explained that the financial margin created by global oil price fluctuations, along with other economic measures, would enable the government to introduce significant electricity price cuts.
Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed his commitment to public welfare, stating that the initiative to reduce electricity prices would not only benefit citizens directly but also contribute to lowering overall inflation, leading to further price reductions across essential goods and services.