Pakistanis are facing a petrol bomb as the price of petrol has hit a record Rs458.41 per litre effective April 3, 2026. High-speed diesel has also soared to Rs520.35 per litre.
The massive hike of Rs137.24 in petrol and Rs184.49 in diesel came in one go due to surging global oil prices triggered by the conflict in the Middle East.
Out of the new petrol price, a staggering Rs160.61 per litre goes directly to the government as Petroleum Levy. This tax alone makes up about 35% of the pump price. In addition, customs duty of Rs24.12, climate support levy of Rs2.5, and other margins add roughly Rs26 more. Overall, government taxes and levies take over Rs 186 per litre in some calculations, putting heavy pressure on consumers.
The government increased the petroleum levy on petrol by Rs55 to meet its revenue targets while reducing the levy on diesel to zero to somewhat limit the impact on transport and agriculture. Prices remain the same across the country.
Motorbike riders, daily commuters, and small businesses are badly hit as transport fares and goods prices are expected to rise sharply. The government has announced targeted subsidies, including Sindh’s Rs2,000 monthly support for motorcyclists, to help the poor. However, many families say the burden is becoming unbearable with every passing week.
This record-high fuel price has added to the pain caused by high inflation and a weak economy. Experts urge the government to focus on long-term solutions like expanding local energy sources and improving efficiency instead of repeated price shocks.
