ISLAMABAD, November 1, 2024: Opposition parties have strongly condemned the federal government for raising petroleum prices, asserting that the increase will exacerbate the financial burden on citizens already grappling with high inflation.
In a move contrary to market expectations, the government increased the price of petrol by Rs. 1.35 per litre, bringing the new price to Rs. 248.38, effective until November 15. High-speed diesel (HSD) saw a larger increase of Rs. 3.85, now priced at Rs. 255.14 per litre.
In contrast, kerosene oil was reduced by Rs. 1.48, now costing Rs. 161.54, while light diesel oil dropped by Rs. 2.61 to Rs. 147.51 per litre.
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) voiced its criticism on social media, arguing that the government’s advertisements claiming “all is well” are misleading, as it continues to raise prices on basic necessities.
The party accused the government of exploiting the public, who are already struggling economically.
Jamaat-e-Islami Emir Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman expressed his disapproval, calling the price increases “shameful.”
He criticized the government for failing to provide relief to both the public and the industrial sector, highlighting the discrepancy between rising prices in Pakistan and declining international rates.
Hafiz Naeem urged the government not to take out its frustrations over PIA’s privatization failures on the public through these price hikes.
