MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): Citizens are facing serious difficulties due to an ongoing petrol shortage across Muzaffarabad, disrupting daily life and transportation.
According to reports, the shortage has intensified amid expectations of a possible increase in petroleum prices on Friday. In response, several petrol pump owners have reportedly limited or temporarily halted fuel supply.
As a result, petrol has completely run out at several petrol pumps, while those still supplying petrol are witnessing long queues of vehicles. Residents have complained of waiting for hours to refuel, causing delays in routine activities and increasing traffic congestion in various parts of the city.
The situation has led to growing concern among the public, with many calling for immediate intervention by the authorities to stabilize supply and prevent further disruption.
Citizens have urged the relevant departments to take prompt action against hoarding or artificial shortages and ensure the continuous availability of petrol to ease the difficulties being faced by the public.
Petrol price expected to increase
Pakistanis may once again face a fresh wave of fuel price pressure as petrol prices are widely expected to be revised upward soon, due to ongoing global crude oil market volatility and continuous currency exchange rate changes.
The anticipated adjustment comes at a time when inflationary pressures remain high, maintaining consumer and business uncertainty until the government makes its official announcement.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday said that the government will review the petroleum product prices on Friday. The PM told the cabinet meeting that international fuel costs had increased, and he showed that Pakistan now spends $800 million weekly to import oil, which used to cost $300 million before the war.
He further shared that the country’s fuel consumption had decreased compared to previous weeks, stressing that the situation was being monitored regularly.
“Consultations are also being held with provinces to extend fuel subsidies,” the premier told the cabinet.
