The federal government has announced that petrol and high-speed diesel prices will remain unchanged for the next fortnight starting January 16.
Petrol will continue to be sold at Rs 253.17 per litre, while high-speed diesel will remain at Rs 257.08 per litre, according to a notification issued by the Petroleum Division. The current rates will be in effect until the end of January.
In the previous fortnightly review, the government had reduced petrol prices by Rs 10.28 per litre and high-speed diesel by Rs 8.57 per litre. This adjustment had provided relief to commuters and the transport sector amid rising living costs.
Commuters in small vehicles, rickshaws, and two-wheelers primarily use petrol. Stable petrol prices are significant for middle and lower-middle-class households, as any increase directly affects daily travel expenses. By keeping petrol prices steady, the government aims to ease the financial burden on these segments of society.
High-speed diesel, on the other hand, is widely used in heavy goods transport, including trucks, buses, trains, and agricultural machinery such as tractors, tube wells, and threshers.
Diesel prices have a broader economic impact because they influence the cost of transporting goods and farming products. Increases in diesel prices often lead to inflationary pressures, affecting the prices of vegetables, grains, and other essential commodities in the market.
The government’s decision to maintain current fuel prices reflects a cautious approach to balancing the needs of consumers and the transport sector while keeping inflationary pressures under check.
Authorities will continue to monitor global oil prices and domestic market conditions to determine whether adjustments will be needed in the next review period. Consumers and businesses alike are advised to stay informed about any upcoming notifications from the Petroleum Division regarding fuel pricing.
