Petrol prices: Pakistan 'plans' targeted subsidy for motorcyclists via app-based system

The Pakistan government is accelerating plans to provide subsidised petrol to motorcyclists, after a recent major hike in petrol price, sources told ARY News.

Under the plan, the Pakistan government will offer up to 20 litres per month at reduced rates.

According to sources, the subsidy is likely to be limited initially to 70cc motorcycles. Under the proposed scheme, petrol may be provided at Rs100 per litre less through a quota system for motorcycles and rickshaws starting next week.

With support from the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, a mobile application has been developed to facilitate motorcycle registration for the scheme.

The proposal will soon be presented to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for approval.

Sources indicate that the Rs100 per litre subsidy will apply only to registered 70cc motorcycles, while higher-capacity or luxury motorcycles are unlikely to be included.

Unregistered vehicles or those pending registration will not qualify for the subsidy. It is to be noted that the government on Thursday night announced a major hike in petrol prices.

Speaking at a press conference alongside the finance minister, Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik said the new price of petrol has been set at Rs458.40 per litre.

Ali Pervaiz Malik stated that the ongoing conflict has engulfed the entire region, adding that the government is grateful to the President, chief ministers and coalition partners for their support.

He said the war has triggered a surge in global energy prices, forcing the government to take difficult and responsible decisions, as crude oil prices have risen sharply.

The minister also noted that the Prime Minister has initiated austerity measures, including salary cuts for cabinet members, and emphasised that national unity is essential at this time.