Pakistan bans use of high-octane fuel in govt vehicles

Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif on Monday imposed a complete ban on the use of high-octane fuel in government vehicles, shortly after the announcement of a Rs200 increase in the levy on this fuel.

The decision comes amid government efforts to manage the economic impact of rising global oil prices following the US-Israel war on Iran, which has triggered a fuel crisis.

According to an announcement by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), the premier directed relevant authorities to take action against government officials who used high-octane in their official vehicles.

"If necessary, the officials will have to bear the cost of high-octane fuel from their own pocket,” the announcement quoted the premier as saying.

He stressed the need for maximum conservation of fuel in view of global oil crisis due to the US-Israel war on Iran, and Iran’s subsequent attacks on United States air bases and other facilities in Gulf States, including their oil refineries.

On Sunday, Shahbaz had issued a directive to increase the levy on high-octane fuel used by luxury vehicles by an additional Rs200 per litre, bringing the total levy to Rs300 per litre.

"The prime minister took notice that the levy on high-octane fuel used in the most expensive vehicles should be increased,” the statement had said.

The prices of fuel used in ordinary vehicles used by the lower and middle classes has not been increased, preventing an increase in the price of public transport or airfare.

The decision will save the government Rs9 billion per month and as per the prime minister’s instructions, this will be used to provide relief to citizens. It may reduce the burden on the economy, as the richest class in the country will bear the burden, the statement noted.