Petrol price hike to PKR 459 sparks protests in Pakistan, forces Shehbaz government to roll back

After raising petrol prices to PKR 459 per litre a day ago, the Pakistan government was forced to reduce it by PKR 80 following massive backlash across the nation, with citizens describing the sharp hike as a move that would “economically kill the masses”.

The reduction brings the price down to PKR 378 per litre and comes just a day after the government announced a steep 43 percent increase in petrol prices, driven largely by a higher petroleum levy.

Sharif said the revised rate would take effect from midnight and remain in place for at least one month, offering partial relief after widespread outrage over the sudden surge.

Unprecedented hike triggers widespread backlash

The earlier increase, from PKR 321.17 to PKR 458.41 per litre, marked one of the steepest fuel price hikes in the country, prompting strong criticism from citizens and businesses alike.

Many described the move as “unprecedented and uncalled-for”, warning that it would severely erode purchasing power and sharply raise the cost of living.

Rising costs hit daily essentials and transport

The impact was immediately visible across local markets, where prices of essential commodities such as vegetables, flour and meat began rising. Commuters also reported higher fares, as transport operators passed on the increased fuel costs.

In Rawalpindi, resident Muhammad Afzal said school van operators had already raised monthly fees by PKR 1,000, underlining the cascading impact on household budgets. He added that the burden of the increase fell disproportionately on daily wage earners and salaried individuals.

Faisal Mughal, another resident, termed the move an attempt to “economically kill the masses”, warning that higher inter-city fares would further isolate low-income families.

Business community warns of economic strain

The Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry warned that the hike would have far-reaching consequences for the economy and businesses.

RCCI President Usman Shaukat said transportation costs had effectively doubled, which would fuel food inflation and increase construction expenses, placing an “unbearable strain” on economic activity.

He also pointed to a gap between domestic fuel prices and international rates, attributing the surge to the imposition of a record petroleum levy, and urged the government to ease the burden on consumers.

Political leaders call move ‘economic oppression’

Political leaders also criticised the pricing decision, calling it “economic oppression” and warning that it could push the working class towards a breaking point.

They argued that the hike, introduced amid regional tensions, was placing an unsustainable burden on ordinary citizens.

Public frustration persists despite rollback

Despite the reduction, frustration remains high, with many questioning how households can cope with petrol prices still at elevated levels.

Residents described the situation as more than a routine price adjustment, reflecting broader concerns over a fresh wave of inflation and rising cost of living.