LAHORE – Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Friday unveiled a comprehensive relief package featuring free public transport, fuel subsidies and targeted financial support for transporters, aimed at easing the burden on citizens amid rising global economic pressures.
The measures come in the wake of a national austerity and savings drive initiated by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to cushion the impact of international economic challenges and rising fuel costs. Under the package, public transport services across Punjab have been made free for one month. The initiative covers major systems including the Lahore Orange Line Metro Train, Metro Bus Service, Speedo Bus and Green Electric Buses, allowing commuters to travel without purchasing tickets.
In addition, the chief minister announced fuel subsidies for key sectors. Farmers will receive Rs100 per litre of diesel per acre, while motorcycle owners will be provided a subsidy of Rs100 per litre on up to 20 litres per month, translating into Rs2,000 monthly relief for each registered bike owner.
Separately, a targeted monthly subsidy package has been introduced for the transport sector. Under this initiative, registered goods transport vehicles will receive Rs70,000 per month, large vehicles Rs80,000, and public service buses Rs100,000 to help offset rising fuel costs and prevent fare increases. Maryam Nawaz urged transporters, particularly in Punjab, to extend relief to the public and avoid passing on additional costs to passengers. She said the government would closely monitor the situation to ensure that the benefits of the subsidies are effectively transferred to citizens. She noted that Pakistan’s reliance on imported oil makes it particularly vulnerable to global market volatility, adding that rising oil prices and ongoing international crises have made pressure on fuel costs unavoidable. Paying tribute to the prime minister for maintaining petroleum prices and supply stability despite global challenges, she said billions of rupees have been extended in relief to shield citizens from economic hardship. Calling for public cooperation, the chief minister urged citizens to prioritise public transport over private vehicles during the current situation, emphasising that collective responsibility and restraint were essential in navigating economic challenges. She reiterated that the government remains committed to reducing financial pressures on the public and would continue to extend relief measures as conditions stabilise.
