ISLAMABAD: Facing strong public backlash over the sharp rise in fuel prices, the government has rolled out a targeted subsidy for public transport, aiming to cushion the impact on commuters and control inflation.
Speaking at a joint press conference, IT and Telecom Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja announced that trucks, buses, and other public service vehicles have started receiving the subsidy with immediate effect. She said the initiative, originally planned for later implementation, was expedited on the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif due to the urgency of the situation.
The subsidy programme has been developed in coordination with provincial governments to ensure that rising diesel prices do not translate into higher transport fares. It covers large goods transport, buses, vans, and registered motorbikes involved in public services, with distribution expected to be completed within a few days.
Minister Khawaja emphasized that the primary objective is to provide relief to the masses and prevent further inflationary pressure triggered by fuel price hikes.
Meanwhile, Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani stated that the government had already absorbed Rs129 billion to stabilize fuel prices over the past three weeks. He reassured that there is no fuel shortage in the country and that all necessary measures are being taken to mitigate the impact of rising global oil prices.
The government maintains that this targeted subsidy mechanism will help protect consumers while ensuring continuity in transport services nationwide.
Story by Sardar Sikander Shaheen
