Govt announces Rs4.07 per litre hike in petrol price

The federal government has increased fuel prices once again, raising petrol by Rs4.07 per litre and high-speed diesel (HSD) by Rs4.04 per litre. The new rates will remain effective until October 15, 2025, according to a notification issued by the Finance Division.

The revision was made on the recommendation of the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) and the concerned ministries, citing changes in international market trends. With this adjustment, petrol will now cost Rs268.68 per litre, up from Rs264.61, while HSD has climbed to Rs276.18 per litre, compared to its previous rate of Rs272.77.

In the last fortnightly review, petrol prices were left unchanged, though diesel was raised by Rs2.78 per litre. This latest increase places additional pressure on households and businesses already grappling with inflation.

Petrol remains the most widely used fuel for small cars, motorcycles, and rickshaws, meaning the rise will disproportionately affect middle- and lower-income groups who rely on it for daily commuting.

Meanwhile, high-speed diesel plays a critical role in the transport and agriculture sectors. It powers trucks, buses, trains, and farm equipment such as tractors and tube wells. Any hike in HSD prices is quickly felt across markets, contributing to higher transportation charges and subsequently raising the cost of essential goods, including vegetables and food items.

The government has stressed that such adjustments are linked to international fuel price fluctuations and exchange rate movements, but experts warn that the rising cost of energy will continue to push inflation upward, further squeezing household budgets.