ISLAMABAD: The federal government has announced a fresh adjustment in petroleum product prices, triggering renewed debate over energy costs and their broader economic impact. The revised prices have been implemented following recommendations from the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA).
The new rates came into effect on February 1 and will remain applicable for the next 15 days. In this sense, the most significant change has been made to high-speed diesel (HSD), a fuel widely used in transport, agriculture, and industrial sectors.
The price of high-speed diesel has been increased by Rs11.30 per litre, taking the new rate to Rs268.38 per litre. Previously, HSD was priced at Rs257.08 per litre. The price of petrol commonly used by private vehicles and motorcycles has been maintained at Rs253.17 per litre.
The government has not provided a detailed public explanation for this selective adjustment, but officials indicate that the decision reflects ongoing efforts to balance revenue requirements with public relief measures.
Moreover, energy experts note that diesel price hikes often have a cascading effect on inflation, as increased transportation and production costs are eventually passed on to consumers. However, by keeping petrol prices unchanged, the government appears to be signaling temporary relief for urban commuters and middle-income households.
The notification reasserts that petroleum prices are reviewed on a fortnightly basis, taking into account global oil trends, exchange rate movements, and fiscal considerations. Despite the official stance, the latest development has sparked fresh speculation about what may come next.
