The Pakistan government has raised the prices of petrol and high-speed diesel by PKR 5 and PKR 7.32 per litre, respectively, until the end of February. This decision follows international market trends and recommendations from the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra), as reported by local media. The hike brings the ex-depot price of high-speed diesel to PKR 275.70 per litre and petrol to PKR 258.17 per litre.
The increase in diesel prices, mainly used in heavy transport vehicles and agricultural engines, is expected to impact the prices of essential goods like vegetables. Similarly, the rise in petrol prices, commonly used in private transport and small vehicles, will affect the budgets of middle and lower-middle-class individuals. In January, concerns arose in upper districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa over flour price hikes, with residents attributing the surge to weak government oversight and profiteering.
Residents in Shangla and nearby areas have seen a significant increase in flour prices, with a 20-kilogram bag now selling for Rs 2,850 and a 40-kilogram bag for up to Rs 5,700. The escalating cost of flour has added financial strain on households already grappling with inflation. Residents are calling on the provincial government and district administration to enforce price controls on essential commodities to alleviate the burden on low and middle-class families.
