ISLAMABAD: The sharp increase in petrol and diesel prices has triggered widespread anger. The government raised petrol prices by 43% and high-speed diesel by 55% on Thursday.
Protests Erupt in Many Cities
Protests broke out in different cities on Friday. In Lahore, traders and transporters staged demonstrations outside the provincial assembly. In Karachi, small traders and labour unions blocked roads in several areas. Similar protests were reported in Peshawar, Quetta, and Multan.
People from all walks of life expressed frustration. Many said the sudden hike would make daily life even more difficult.
Government Defends the Decision
Prime Minister’s Adviser Rana Sanaullah said the government had no choice. He blamed the increase entirely on the ongoing war in the Middle East, which has pushed global oil prices higher.
“The government has nothing to do with this rise. We tried to protect the public for three weeks by spending Rs129 billion,” he said.
Sanaullah announced some relief measures, including subsidies for motorcyclists (Rs100 per litre), farmers (Rs1,500 per acre), and goods transporters.
Opposition and JI React Strongly
The opposition parties criticised the government heavily. PTI Chairman Gohar Khan said petrol has no alternative and the poor and farmers will suffer the most. He announced that PTI will hold an all-parties conference on the issue.
Jamaat-i-Islami chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman warned that if the government does not withdraw the hike, his party will launch a nationwide protest movement, including surrounding chief ministers’ houses and calling a countrywide strike.
The fuel price increase has added to the difficulties of common citizens already struggling with high inflation. Many fear it will trigger a fresh wave of price rises in food, transport, and daily essentials.
