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Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Finance Advisor Muzamil Aslam voiced strong criticism of the recent increase in petrol prices by the current administration, underscoring the impact on inflation and the cost of living for the general populace. Aslam highlighted the discrepancy between the promises made by the PDM-2 and Shehbaz Sarkar prior to elections and their actions upon assuming office, specifically pointing out the swift decision to raise petrol prices.
According to Directorate General Information and PRs – Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Aslam detailed the changes in essential commodity prices and utilities, comparing the current costs to those during the tenure of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Under Khan’s government, petrol was priced at Rs 150 per litre, whereas the current price has seen a significant increase. Aslam provided a series of comparisons: diesel prices jumped from Rs 142 to Rs 282, small gas consumer bills surged from Rs 142 to Rs 1976, and the cost of a small LPG cylinder rose from Rs 2424 to Rs 3413. Additionally, the basic electricity rate doubled from Rs 15.70 to Rs 32 per unit, and fertilizer prices more than doubled, going from Rs 2011 to Rs 4828 per bag.
The Finance Advisor further commented on the economic state of the nation, stating that Pakistan is experiencing the worst inflation in its 76-year history, with over 110 million people living below the poverty line. The unemployment rate has increased from 6% during Imran Khan’s government to over 9% currently.
Aslam’s remarks underscore the growing concern over rising living costs and economic challenges facing the citizens of Pakistan, particularly in light of recent government actions affecting fuel prices and, by extension, the broader economy.