Fuel crisis deepens: Iranian petrol up in Gwadar, jet fuel sees massive increase

Fuel prices have witnessed a sharp increase across parts of Pakistan, with Iranian petrol becoming significantly more expensive in Balochistan while the government has also raised jet fuel prices for commercial airlines, adding further pressure on inflation and transportation costs.

In the border and coastal district of Gwadar, adjacent to Iran, the price of Iranian petrol has increased by Rs 30 to Rs 40 per liter over the past few days. Local traders and people associated with the oil business said the increase was linked to the closure of trade activities in the Kantani Hor border area, which disrupted the supply of fuel entering the region.

According to dealers, Iranian petrol that was previously being sold between Rs 170 and Rs 180 per liter is now being sold for around Rs 200 to Rs 210 per liter in different parts of Gwadar and nearby areas.

Residents and transporters in Balochistan have expressed concern over the sudden increase, saying rising fuel costs are further burdening households already struggling with inflation and increasing transportation expenses.

The latest rise comes after the government recently increased official petrol and diesel prices nationwide, triggering fresh concerns about the cost of living and price hikes in other sectors.

Meanwhile, aviation sources confirmed that the government has also significantly increased jet fuel prices for commercial aircraft operations.

According to sources, the price of jet fuel has been raised by Rs 53.11 per liter, taking the new rate to Rs 441.66 per liter. Aviation officials said the increase is expected to raise operational costs for airlines, which could eventually impact ticket prices and the broader aviation sector.

Industry experts say the simultaneous rise in fuel prices across multiple sectors is likely to contribute further to inflationary pressures, affecting transportation, trade, and travel expenses nationwide.