Islamabad, March 29, 2026 – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has urged citizens to register their motorcycles and three-wheeler rickshaws to benefit from a forthcoming subsidized petrol scheme aimed at easing the burden of rising fuel costs.
Chairing a high-level review meeting on fuel conservation and austerity measures, the prime minister emphasized that the government is prioritizing public relief amid ongoing regional tensions impacting global oil markets. He reassured that Pakistan currently holds sufficient petroleum reserves to meet national demand, attributing the stability to timely and strategic government decisions.
Shehbaz Sharif highlighted that over the past three weeks, the government has taken significant steps to shield consumers from surging international oil prices. He revealed that Rs125 billion had been allocated through development budget cuts and savings to prevent an increase in domestic fuel prices.
The premier announced that a targeted fuel relief program is being developed specifically for motorcycle riders and rickshaw drivers—segments most affected by fuel price fluctuations. He directed provincial governments to simplify the vehicle registration process, ensuring that owners register vehicles in their own names. This step aims to digitize vehicle ownership data and streamline access to the subsidy.
Authorities also briefed the meeting on the implementation of a digital monitoring system to oversee fuel demand, supply, and distribution nationwide. Officials confirmed that petrol import arrangements for April have already been finalized, ensuring uninterrupted supply.
Unlike several countries facing fuel shortages and long queues, Pakistan has maintained a stable supply chain, officials noted. The prime minister called on citizens to support fuel conservation efforts by minimizing unnecessary travel and adopting teleconferencing in workplaces.
The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Ishaq Dar and Jameel Ahmad, via video link. The government is also considering launching a dedicated mobile application to facilitate registration and subsidy access, further enhancing transparency and efficiency in the relief program.