The federal government on Friday hiked price of petrol by Rs25.58 to Rs100.10 per litre for the month of July 2020. The government had provided relief to during the COVID-19 pandemic almost two months ago, when petrol prices were significantly reduced. The price of diesel has gone up to Rs101.46 per litre from the existing Rs80.15, relfecting an increase of Rs21.31.
Pakistan’s usage of petroleum products slumped 31% to 1.38 billion litres countrywide since the lockdown. The Federal Board of Revenue said this had the effect of eating into tax collection. Before the lockdown was enforced, Pakistan’s demand for petroleum products was 2 billion litres.
The FBR said that the global rout in oil prices will nonetheless benefit people here as oil products will be cheaper but tax collection targets may not be achieved.
Motorcyclists in Peshawar cannot buy petrol unless they are wearing helmets in a move to encourage bikers to wear helmets, according to the decision taken by district government. Following this, the prices of helmets have increased from Rs800 to Rs1850 throughout the city as the demand for helmets has increased. According to a shopkeeper the average sale per day was 2 to 3 helmets but has increased to 10 to 15 now.