Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has extended the government’s fuel subsidy programme until the end of December 2026. The initiative aims to protect citizens from rising international oil prices and reduce pressure on household budgets.
The announcement came during a federal cabinet meeting on Wednesday. Shehbaz said the programme had directly benefited around 15 million people, while an estimated 75 million people benefited when their family members were included.
Government Spends Rs28 Billion on Fuel Relief
The prime minister revealed that the government had spent approximately Rs28 billion on the subsidy programme so far.
He also said authorities had prevented a proposed Rs15 per litre increase in petrol prices from reaching consumers. Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik and his team held discussions with oil refineries to share their windfall profits and absorb the additional cost.
Action Against Petrol Pumps Over Irregularities
Shehbaz described the programme as largely transparent but acknowledged that intelligence agencies had identified irregularities at some petrol pumps.
He directed the petroleum minister to shut down outlets involved in malpractice and impose heavy financial penalties on those responsible.
The government aims to ensure that eligible citizens receive the intended relief without interference or misuse.
Subsidy Extension Offers Continued Relief
The extension will allow eligible beneficiaries to continue accessing fuel assistance through the scheme until December.
The programme targets lower-income motorists, including motorcycle riders, rickshaw operators and owners of small cars. Its digital token system is designed to distribute assistance through participating petrol stations.
The latest announcement comes as global energy prices remain volatile. The government says it will continue monitoring fuel costs and taking measures to limit their impact on the public.
For the latest updates, visit and follow The Truth International website (www.thetruthinternational.com) and subscribe to the YouTube Channel.
