ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister Musadik Malik has explained the government’s fuel support scheme amid rising global oil prices.

He said the Iran-US conflict has pushed petroleum prices higher across the world. The government is aware of the pressure faced by ordinary citizens.

Speaking about the Prime Minister’s Fuel Relief Scheme, Malik said the government is providing Rs100 per litre relief.

Motorcycle users will receive Rs2,000 under the scheme for 20 litres of petrol. He said this amount could help families manage essential food expenses.

These expenses may include pulses, bread, eggs and milk. For delivery riders, the support could cover several days of expenses.

Malik said petrol prices have increased sharply from previous levels. He noted that the price has reached around Rs375 per litre.

He said delivery riders are among those affected by higher fuel costs. Their daily work depends heavily on motorcycles and fuel.

Impact of Global Oil Prices

The minister linked the price increase to the Iran-US conflict. He said the impact of the conflict is being felt worldwide.

According to Malik, oil prices were previously around $55 to $60 per barrel. They have now crossed the $100 per barrel mark.

He said people around the world are facing the consequences of the crisis. Pakistan is also dealing with the resulting increase in fuel costs.

People using Qingqi rickshaws will also receive Rs2,000 in support. Malik said this amount could help families pay children’s school fees.

He gave another example involving a person who travels to a factory in an 800cc car. According to Malik, such a person could receive Rs3,000 in monthly support.

He said this assistance could reduce the need to borrow money from relatives or neighbours.

Government Prioritising Poor Families

Malik said the government would provide support to everyone if resources allowed. He stressed that the country belongs to all citizens.

He identified motorcycle users, Qingqi rickshaw drivers and small-car users among poorer citizens.

The minister said Rs2,000 could help a low-income family manage food and milk expenses.

He clarified that the petrol relief scheme has not reduced the actual price of fuel. Global oil prices are still creating pressure.

However, he said whatever assistance the government can provide is the people’s right.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the support to reduce the burden on citizens. Malik said helping low-income families remains the government’s main priority.

Scheme to Expand Nationwide

The petrol relief scheme has initially started in Islamabad. The government plans to expand it across Pakistan within the coming days.

Officials have already explained the registration procedure to citizens. Information about the process is also being shared through television broadcasts.

Malik said the government wants to act as a shield against rising fuel prices. He said further steps will depend on the country’s economic capacity.

The minister also discussed government austerity measures. He said a committee will make the final decision on additional measures.

He said there has been no discussion about introducing a smart lockdown so far. Restaurants and wedding halls are already following prescribed closing times.

The federal government also plans to reduce its own expenditure. Officials are still finalising the country’s energy policy.

Its details will be presented publicly after the policy is completed.

Relief Linked to Economic Capacity

Malik said the financial support for poor citizens is higher than the amount collected through taxes.

He said the decision was taken after careful consideration. However, he acknowledged that fuel prices remain a major burden.

The government can only provide support according to the country’s economic capacity. Malik said assistance will continue as long as the economy can sustain it.

He also said Pakistan is working to help end the regional conflict. An end to the war could reduce pressure on people in Pakistan and elsewhere.Malik added that Pakistan is being described internationally as a guarantor of peace.

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The government says the petrol relief initiative is intended to provide temporary support to citizens affected by rising fuel costs.