Karachi, April 3, 2026 – In a major relief move amid soaring petroleum prices, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has announced a Rs2,000 monthly fuel subsidy for motorcycle owners across the province, to be transferred directly into bank accounts.
The announcement comes in line with the federal government’s targeted subsidy framework aimed at cushioning the impact of record-high fuel prices on lower-income segments.
During a press conference, CM Murad Ali Shah said that all registered motorcycle owners in Sindh will be eligible for the subsidy, which will be disbursed through a direct bank transfer system between April 15 and April 20.
To streamline the process, the Sindh Excise Department has developed a dedicated mobile application where citizens can enter their CNIC details to verify eligibility and claim the subsidy.
6.7 Million Motorcycles Eligible
According to the chief minister, Sindh has approximately 6.7 million registered motorcycles, making this one of the largest targeted subsidy programs in the province’s history.
He clarified that the Rs2,000 monthly subsidy is equivalent to a Rs100 per litre relief on 20 litres of petrol, as part of the broader federal relief package announced recently.
“This is a cash transfer, not a discount at petrol pumps,” he emphasized, urging citizens to rely only on official channels for registration.
Free Ownership Transfers Announced
In a bid to improve vehicle documentation, CM Murad also announced that motorcycle ownership transfers will now be free of charge.
He urged citizens to complete the transfer process within the next 15 days to remain eligible for the subsidy program, especially for vehicles not yet registered in their names.
Relief Amid Fuel Price Hike
The announcement comes shortly after a significant increase in fuel prices across Pakistan. The federal government recently raised petrol to Rs458.41 per litre and high-speed diesel (HSD) to Rs520.35 per litre, marking one of the steepest hikes in recent months.
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb had also announced a targeted relief measure, offering subsidised petrol to motorcycle users at a reduced rate for limited consumption.
Targeted Subsidy Strategy
CM Murad explained that due to rising global oil prices and economic pressures, Pakistan has shifted from blanket subsidies to a targeted relief system focusing on vulnerable groups.
He noted that the decision was discussed at high-level meetings involving President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, with all provinces taken into confidence.
The government is working under guidance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to ensure fiscal discipline while providing targeted relief.
Support for Farmers and Transport Sector
As part of the broader relief package, Sindh has also introduced support measures for agriculture and transport:
• 336,000 small farmers (owning 1–25 acres) will receive Rs1,500 per acre to offset diesel costs for wheat threshing
• Bus owners will receive Rs100,000 per vehicle
• Two-axle trucks will receive Rs70,000
• Heavy transport vehicles will receive Rs80,000
• Additional subsidies of up to Rs140,000 for intra-city buses to prevent fare hikes
Transporters will be required to sign undertakings not to increase fares, while authorities monitor compliance to protect commuters from inflation.
Railway Fares Frozen
In a coordinated national effort, Pakistan Railways will not increase fares, with the federal government absorbing the additional financial burden.
Focus on Economic Stability
The chief minister stressed that these measures aim to control inflation, protect commuters, and stabilize the economy amid global fuel market volatility.
He also highlighted the government’s wheat procurement strategy, stating that renewed purchases will help stabilize prices, support farmers, and reduce reliance on imports.