The government has unveiled a new plan to provide subsidized petrol to low-income citizens through a digital system, using a mobile app to manage distribution at petrol pumps nationwide amid the ongoing energy crisis.
According to reports, the Ministry of IT has invited expressions of interest for the purchase of 24,000 mobile phones. These phones will be supplied to petrol pumps across the country to digitally manage the subsidy system.
The National IT Board will determine the prices of the mobile phones, while oil marketing companies will purchase them and distribute them to petrol pumps. Under the plan, a total of 24,000 mobile phones will be provided to 12,000 petrol pumps, meaning each pump will have two phones.
The government will designate two nozzles at each petrol pump specifically for dispensing subsidized petrol. The mobile app developed by the Ministry of IT is in its final stages, with testing currently underway.
Officials said the app will issue digital vouchers to consumers, which will serve as the basis for providing subsidies. Initially, it is proposed to offer up to 20 liters of subsidized petrol per month to motorcyclists.
However, no final decision has been made yet regarding subsidized petrol for vehicles up to 800cc.
Meanwhile, the government has also begun monitoring petrol pumps nationwide to ensure the system functions effectively.
