The Punjab government has launched a mobile phone application aimed at providing fuel subsidies to motorbike owners across the province, offering relief after Pakistan witnessed one of the biggest petroleum price hikes in its history.
Under the new initiative, eligible motorbike owners will be able to purchase up to 20 litres of petrol per month at a discounted rate of Rs100 per litre. The subsidy program is designed to ease the financial burden on commuters who rely on motorcycles for daily transportation.
Authorities announced that citizens can start applying for the subsidy from April 4 through multiple channels to ensure easy access for the public.
Motorbike owners can apply for the subsidy through the following methods:
Call the government helpline 1000
Use the “Maryam Ko Batayen” mobile application
Visit the official Maryam Ko Batayen web portal (mkb.punjab.gov.pk)
Officials said the program aims to simplify the process through digital platforms, allowing applicants to register quickly and verify their eligibility.
In another relief measure for motorcycle owners, the Punjab government has also abolished registration and transfer fees for motorbikes across the province. This move is expected to encourage legal registration and ease financial pressure on riders.
The subsidy announcement comes shortly after the federal government implemented a dramatic increase in fuel prices. Petrol prices surged to Rs458.40 per litre, while high-speed diesel climbed to Rs520.35 per litre, effective from April 3, 2026.
According to the government, petrol prices rose by Rs137.23 per litre, while diesel saw an even larger increase of Rs184.49 per litre. Officials attributed the decision to rising global oil prices and ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East that have disrupted energy markets.
The sharp rise in petroleum prices is expected to affect multiple sectors, including transportation, agriculture, and manufacturing, which heavily depend on fuel.
Economists warn that the surge could further intensify inflationary pressures and strain household budgets already impacted by high living costs.
The Punjab government’s fuel subsidy program is therefore seen as a targeted relief initiative aimed at supporting daily commuters, particularly low- and middle-income motorbike riders who depend on petrol for their livelihood and routine travel.