Just one week before the start of the holy month of Ramadan, the government has dealt a significant blow to the public by announcing an increase in petrol and diesel prices.
According to a notification issued by the Petroleum Division, the price of petrol has been increased by Rs. 5 per litre for the next 15 days, bringing the new price to Rs. 258.17. Similarly, a substantial hike of Rs. 7.32 per litre has been made for High-Speed Diesel (HSD), pushing its price to Rs. 275.70 per litre.
The new prices have been implemented immediately, effective from February 16.
This decision followed the government’s fortnightly review based on recommendations from the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA).
Impact on the Public
This move shatters the price stability observed at the beginning of the year, when rates were maintained following a reduction on New Year’s Day. The hike in diesel prices is expected to have a ripple effect:
Increased fuel costs will drive up transportation and farming expenses.
Higher production and logistics costs will lead to a direct increase in the prices of essential food items.
Coming just before Ramadan, this increase will severely impact consumer budgets—especially for those already struggling with high electricity and gas tariffs and limited income.
