The government has shown its utter disregard for the plight of the common people by approving a massive hike in the price of petrol, according to a notification issued by the Federal Ministry of Finance. The new price of petrol per liter is a whopping 272 rupees and 89 paise, an increase of 13 rupees and 55 paise from the previous rate.
The price of diesel has also been jacked up by 2 rupees and 75 paise per liter, making it 278 rupees and 96 paise per liter. The only relief for the consumers is a meager reduction of 24 paise in the price of kerosene oil, which is now 186 rupees and 62 paise per liter. The price of light diesel oil has also gone up by 2 rupees and 3 paise, reaching 166 rupees and 86 paise per liter.
The finance ministry has given his nod for the new prices of petroleum products, without any consultation or consideration for the impact on the economy and the society. The government has failed to provide any justification or rationale for the exorbitant increase, which will further burden the already struggling masses.
The people of Pakistan are outraged by the government’s decision, which they see as a blatant robbery and a betrayal of trust.