Citizens express dissatisfaction over minor reduction in petrol price

ISLAMABAD: Following the recent revision in petrol price, several Pakistanis have expressed their discontent, contending that the Rs8 reduction falls short of providing substantial relief for the general public.

A citizen, speaking to a Hum News reporter, said that the timing of the petrol price reduction, coinciding with the upcoming general elections, appears to be a strategic move.

Cynics speculate that this reduction is a mere pre-election tactic, with expectations that the government will revert to higher prices post the 2024 elections.

Another individual highlighted a recurrent pattern, stating that while increases in petrol and diesel prices often lead to inflation across various sectors, reductions fail to translate into lower prices for essential commodities.

The perceived lack of a ripple effect in the case of a price reduction has left citizens skeptical about the tangible benefits.

Many citizens argue that the announced reduction is insufficient, especially for the lower-income groups who continue to bear the burden of petrol prices exceeding Rs250.

One citizen expressed the sentiment that a more substantial reduction, ideally bringing the price down to Rs200 per litre, would provide genuine relief to the struggling populace.

Social media platforms have also become a sounding board for public dissatisfaction, with netizens expressing their dismay over the minimal impact of the petrol price revision on their daily expenses.

As of today, the petrol price stands at Rs259.34 per litre across Pakistan, including major cities such as Bahawalpur, Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, and Multan. Diesel, however, maintains its previous price of Rs276.21 per litre.

The reduction was announced by the government, effective from January 16, 2024, until the end of the month.

Notably, no reduction was communicated for diesel price, and the current rate will persist until the next fortnightly review.

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