Govt may increase petrol prices today

ISLAMABAD: If you were hoping to start October with a little relief at the fuel pump, think again. Petrol and diesel prices in Pakistan are expected to go up yet again from Wednesday, adding to the strain on everyday commuters and transporters.

According to official estimates, petrol could rise by around Rs2 per litre, while high-speed diesel (HSD) might see an increase of about Rs2.50 per litre. On paper, these changes look like small bumps. But for millions of people who rely on motorcycles, rickshaws, and small cars to get to work or run daily errands, even a tiny increase can weigh heavy on household budgets.

What the numbers look like right now

At present, petrol’s ex-depot price stands at Rs264.61 per litre, though it’s being sold at pumps in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad at around Rs265.60. If you’re using hi-octane, you’re already paying Rs280 per litre. Diesel is no better off, the ex-depot rate is Rs272.77 per litre.

Both petrol and diesel have already climbed about Rs13 per litre since mid-May. And let’s not forget, between May and August, diesel shot up by Rs27, pushing transporters to raise fares. While there’s been a partial cut of Rs13 in recent weeks, fares haven’t really come down.

Beyond petrol: what’s next?

It’s not just petrol and diesel on the rise. Kerosene oil and light diesel oil are also set to become more expensive, by Rs4.50 and Rs1.75 per litre respectively. These fuels may not be at the centre of daily urban life, but they play a big role in rural areas, agriculture, and small-scale industries.

Why prices keep climbing

Global oil price fluctuations are a big driver behind these changes. But local taxation makes the pinch even sharper. The government, for now, charges no GST on petroleum products. However, it does collect hefty levies: Rs79.50 per litre on diesel and Rs80.52 per litre on petrol and high-octane, including Rs2.50 per litre under the CSL. On top of that, customs duties of Rs16-17 per litre apply to both petrol and diesel, regardless of where they come from.

Why it matters

For SUV owners or those with deeper pockets, an increase of Rs2 might sound like loose change. But for rickshaw drivers, delivery riders, and families relying on motorbikes, it means tighter budgets and tougher choices. Every rise in fuel prices trickles down to higher transport costs and food prices, things that everyone feels.

The government is expected to make the official announcement of fuel prices tonight between 9 and 11 PM. Whatever numbers they release will remain in place for the first half of October 2025.

So, while the calendar flips to a new month, the story at the pump looks frustratingly familiar: higher prices and harder days ahead for Pakistan’s fuel-dependent households.

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