Millions of Pakistanis get government fuel relief but some miss out
Summary
Pakistan’s government has given fuel discounts to more than 9.5 million people through a special program to help low-income citizens cope with rising petrol prices linked to the war on Iran. The program offers cash back when buying petrol for small vehicles like motorcycles, rickshaws, and small cars using a text-message system.Key Facts
- The fuel relief scheme started in September and gives 100 rupees (about $0.36) off per liter of petrol.
- People apply by texting their ID number, vehicle details, and province to a special number to get a redeemable token.
- Two- and three-wheelers receive up to 500 rupees ($1.80) per week, and small cars get 1,000 rupees ($3.60) every 10 days.
- The scheme was changed to remove ownership limits and registration fees after user complaints.
- A previous cash transfer program reached fewer people because many lacked bank accounts.
- Petrol prices have risen nearly 50% since the war started on February 28, increasing financial pressure on households.
- The government charges a levy of 114 rupees ($0.41) per liter, which brings in over 100 billion rupees ($361 million) monthly and contributes to inflation.
- The government allocated 75 billion rupees ($271 million) to fund the scheme through November, with monthly costs around 25-30 billion rupees ($90-$108 million).
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