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**Petrol Price Hike Sparks Uncertainty as Motorcycle Subsidy Faces Delays** ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has announced a significant increase in petroleum product prices, intensifying financial pressure on low-income commuters, particularly motorcycle riders, as a promised subsidy scheme remains delayed. Despite earlier commitments, the government has yet to finalize a framework for subsidizing fuel for low-income motorcycle users. Officials have not clarified whether the subsidy will be distributed through a mobile application or an SMS-based verification system, leaving millions uncertain about relief measures. Sources indicate that the Ministry of IT is still testing a dedicated mobile application intended to manage subsidy distribution. However, technical issues have emerged during the testing phase, further delaying implementation. Under the proposed system, only motorcycles registered in the user’s name would qualify, and verification may require a formal vehicle registration card rather than ownership documents. Meanwhile, the government has not provided a clear timeline on how the subsidy will be executed, though an official announcement is expected within the next two days. The provincial government in Sindh has opposed the mobile application-based approach, with the Chief Minister suggesting that subsidies be transferred directly to beneficiaries through the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), a move aimed at ensuring transparency and wider accessibility. Previously, the federal government had announced a subsidy of Rs2,000 per month for up to 20 liters of petrol, effectively reducing the price by Rs100 per liter for eligible motorcycle users. However, in the absence of implementation, riders across the country continue to bear the burden of rising fuel costs. Until a clear mechanism is finalized and rolled out, relief for millions of daily commuters remains uncertain.

Digital Pakistan

Govt Turns to Digital Vouchers for Petrol Subsidy, 24,000 Devices to Be Procured

ISLAMABAD

Pakistan’s government has decided to roll out a targeted fuel subsidy through a mobile application, as it seeks to cushion the impact of a deepening energy crisis while tightening oversight of petrol distribution, officials said.

The Ministry of Information Technology has invited expressions of interest for the procurement of 24,000 mobile phones to support the initiative, with the National IT Board (NITB) tasked with finalising pricing, according to officials familiar with the matter.

Under the proposed mechanism, oil marketing companies will procure the devices and distribute them to petrol pumps nationwide. Around 24,000 mobile phones will be deployed across 12,000 fuel stations, with two nozzles at each pump designated specifically for subsidised fuel.

The subsidy will be delivered digitally through a mobile application, which has been developed by the IT ministry and is currently in the final stages of testing. Eligible consumers—primarily two- and three-wheeler users—will receive subsidised petrol via digital vouchers generated through the app.

Officials said a monthly cap of up to 20 litres of subsidised fuel is being proposed for motorcycles, while a decision on extending the facility to small cars up to 800cc has yet to be finalised. Consumers will not be allowed to exceed their allocated quota.

The move is part of a broader government strategy to manage fuel demand amid ongoing energy challenges. Authorities are also monitoring petrol pumps across the country to ensure compliance and transparency.

Officials added that contingency plans have been prepared in case the situation worsens due to external factors, including the potential impact of escalating global tensions.