Pakistan Railways confirmed passenger and freight train fares will remain unchanged until June 30, following the directive from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to absorb rising diesel costs.
Officials stated operational expenses required a 30 percent fare increase, but the prime minister instructed Pakistan Railways not to raise fares for any passenger class.
Economy and air-conditioned class fares will remain unchanged, with the government covering additional costs to ensure affordability for passengers across all categories of train services.
Freight train fares will also remain frozen, with the government deciding to bear the impact of diesel price increases to support traders and businesses.
The government announced it will absorb Rs6 billion in additional expenses until June 30, ensuring no fare adjustments are passed on to passengers or traders.
Railways Minister Muhammad Hanif Abbasi confirmed the directive, describing the decision as a major relief for passengers and businesses during a period of rising fuel costs.
Meanwhile, Sindh government announced Rs2,000 monthly fuel subsidy for motorcycle owners, with payments scheduled between April 15 and April 20 through verified accounts.
Earlier in a day, the federal government withdrew proposed toll tax hikes on national highways and motorways, cancelling earlier plans for a 25 percent quarterly increase.
Increase in Fuel Prices
Yesterday, the government announced sharp increases in fuel prices, with petrol now costing Rs458.40 per litre and diesel set at Rs520.35 per litre.
Minister of State for Finance Ali Pervaiz Malik and Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb confirmed the new rates, reflecting historic increases for both petrol and diesel.
Petrol prices have risen by Rs138 per litre, while diesel prices increased by Rs184 per litre, marking unprecedented highs in Pakistan’s fuel market.
Officials warned the new pricing structure could trigger a fresh wave of inflation, adding pressure on households and businesses already struggling with rising costs.
