Pakistan's Shehbaz Sharif Govt Cuts Petrol Price By Rs 80 Amid Nationwide Protests

New Delhi: The atmosphere in Pakistan regarding petrol prices was heated for the last few days. The anger of the people, troubled by the continuously increasing rates, had reached the streets. In such a situation, the government suddenly took a decision and made petrol cheaper by Rs 80 per liter. Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif himself announced the change.

What is the new price and from when is it applicable?

After the cut, petrol is now available at Rs 378 per litre. The new rates were implemented from 12 midnight. The announcement was made on TV. The government has called it a relief, but people say that this reduction is still less compared to the rapid increase in prices earlier.

Why was relief not given in diesel?

Here the case is reversed. Petrol has become cheaper, but diesel is still stuck at Rs 520.35 per liter. The reason is clearly stated, if diesel is made cheaper, it will have a big impact on the transport sector, and the government does not want to take that risk at the moment.

What changes were made in tax?

The government has also made changes in taxes to create balance. The levy on petrol was increased to Rs 160, while the tax on diesel has been removed. Due to this, the government is saving its revenue and on top of that it is also giving the message of relief.

What happened when the price was increased first?

When the prices were increased on the night of April 2, the situation changed completely. Petrol had gone straight up to Rs 458 per litre. Diesel also crossed Rs 520. After this, there were protests at many places, the government was also under attack on social media.

How much impact did external circumstances have?

Oil supply has been affected after increasing tension in the Middle East. Countries like Pakistan, which import oil from outside, came under direct pressure. The situation was such that the government had to implement work from home and a four-day workweek so that consumption could be reduced.

What could happen next?

At present this decision seems to have been taken to reduce the pressure. But the real problem still remains. If prices continue to fluctuate like this in the international market, changes may be seen again in the future. At present the common people have got half the relief, not the whole.