ISLAMABAD: The government has reduced the price of petrol by Rs3.19 per litre to Rs376.06 but increased high-speed diesel (HSD) by Rs2.25 to Rs398.07 per litre for October 28, offering limited relief to petrol users while raising fuel costs for transporters, farmers and businesses.
According to the Petroleum Division, the revised prices will take effect on October 28, bringing petrol down from Rs379.25 to Rs376.06 per litre and raising HSD from Rs395.82 to Rs398.07 per litre.
The petrol price cut is expected to provide some relief to motorcycle owners, private car users and other petrol consumers. However, the benefit will depend on individual fuel consumption and is unlikely to substantially ease household expenses.
In contrast, the increase in diesel prices is likely to raise operating costs for public transport, goods carriers, agricultural machinery and other diesel-powered vehicles. Higher transportation expenses could also put additional pressure on the prices of essential commodities, although the extent of any impact will depend on market conditions and whether transporters and suppliers pass on the increased costs to consumers.
Diesel plays a major role in transporting food, industrial goods and other essential supplies across the country. Any sustained increase in diesel prices can therefore affect businesses and consumers beyond the direct cost of fuel, particularly when transport charges are adjusted in response to higher operating expenses.
The latest adjustment comes as households continue to face pressure from commuting costs and the prices of goods and services. While petrol users will see a reduction at the pump, diesel consumers and businesses relying on freight transport will face a higher fuel bill.
The revised prices reflect changes under the government’s petroleum pricing mechanism. The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) reviews petroleum prices based on relevant pricing components, including international product prices and applicable charges, before the government announces the revised rates.