LAHORE/ISLAMABAD: In the wake of unprecedented increases in petrol and diesel prices, both the Punjab and federal governments have announced measures to provide immediate relief to commuters.
The Punjab government declared on Friday that public transport services across the province will be free for all passengers. The relief covers a wide range of services, including the Orange Line, Metro Bus, Speedo buses, and Green Electric Buses.
The federal government recently raised petrol prices by Rs138 per liter, taking the cost to Rs458.40 per liter, while diesel prices surged by Rs184 per liter, reaching Rs520.35 per liter.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif introduced a comprehensive relief package, which also includes diesel subsidies of Rs100 per liter for farmers and petrol subsidies of Rs100 per liter on up to 20 liters for registered motorcycle owners.
She stated that the initiative aligns with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s national savings and austerity program and emphasized that supporting citizens during economic challenges remains the government’s priority. “We will not leave the people alone in difficult times,” she added, urging residents to utilize public transport amid the ongoing economic strain.
In Islamabad, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced on social media platform X that public transport will be provided free of charge starting tomorrow. The scheme is set to last 30 days, with the Ministry of Interior covering Rs350 million in costs.
Minister Naqvi highlighted that these relief measures are intended to ease the burden of soaring fuel prices on the public and acknowledged the timely attention being given to citizens’ needs amid the challenging economic environment.
