Former Punjab Transport Minister Ibrahim Murad has proposed a fuel card system to provide students petrol at a discounted price amid rising fuel costs.
Under the plan, each student would receive a monthly quota of 10 liters of subsidized petrol. This initiative aims to ease financial pressure on students who rely on motorcycles for commuting to schools and universities.
Murad estimated the program would cost around Rs10 billion per month but stressed it could benefit thousands of students across Punjab. The province has nearly 17 million registered motorcycles, highlighting the potential impact of such a scheme.
He suggested that even a limited three-month fuel card initiative could provide meaningful relief during periods of soaring petrol prices. Students would be able to access petrol at a discounted price, making daily travel more affordable.
The proposal comes after the federal government announced a massive increase of Rs55 per liter in petrol prices, raising the cost to Rs321.17 per liter from March 7, 2026. Diesel prices also surged to Rs335.86 per liter, marking a 17% hike nationwide.
Murad emphasized that providing petrol at a discounted price would help students cope with the sudden rise in fuel costs. The initiative is seen as a practical solution to mitigate the impact of inflation and ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly linked to the Iran War.
The former minister also noted that the fuel card system could be implemented quickly and efficiently, allowing students to benefit immediately without lengthy administrative processes.
Analysts said such programs could serve as temporary relief while longer-term measures are considered. With petrol prices hitting record highs, the proposal has drawn attention from policymakers and student groups seeking immediate support.
Murad urged the provincial government to consider the fuel card initiative to help students maintain mobility and continue their education without undue financial strain.
If approved, the program could serve as a model for other provinces facing similar challenges due to the ongoing surge in fuel prices and economic pressures on young commuters.
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