New Delhi, March 14: The ongoing crisis in West Asia is having a ripple effect across the globe. A recent report indicates that the sharp rise in fuel prices in Pakistan has exacerbated difficulties during Ramadan. The country is already grappling with an economic crisis, and the public is feeling the pinch of inflation. As households struggle to manage their budgets during Ramadan, rising prices of essential goods are hitting middle-class families the hardest.
According to a report by Dawn, fuel prices have surged by 55 rupees per liter, impacting the entire nation. This increase has led to higher transportation costs, escalating food prices, and added financial pressure on households during the holy month.
The timing of this price hike has intensified public anger. Traditionally, Ramadan is a period when governments are expected to provide targeted support for essential items. However, the current situation is quite the opposite. The rise in prices is particularly severe for millions of daily wage workers and gig economy employees, whose incomes are low and uncertain.
Pakistan’s heavy reliance on imported fuel makes domestic prices extremely vulnerable to international shocks. The report states, “Fuel prices are never an isolated economic event. In an import-dependent economy like Pakistan, they serve as a strong transmission channel through which cost pressures spread across nearly every sector.”
Within hours of the announcement, transportation fares began to rise in urban areas. For millions who depend on public transport or motorcycles to commute, this means unavoidable increases in daily expenses.
The report highlights that families typically plan their shopping for Eid during this time. However, the current circumstances are causing a financial shock to households in Pakistan, rapidly diminishing their purchasing power.
In Peshawar, the rise in petrol and diesel prices has increased the cost of goods and travel between cities, while petroleum dealers report a significant drop in fuel sales.
Meanwhile, in Karachi, the hike in petroleum prices has raised transport fares across various travel modes, further straining already pressured household budgets.
The report indicates that the impact is already visible in local markets, where traders note that prices change within hours of any fuel increase.
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Arpit Soni has had a passion for journalism since the beginning. Now he has turned this hobby into his profession. Arpit, who is a resident of Udaipur, enjoys editing and writing news related to journalism. He has worked as a Senior Content Producer in several important roles at Bhaskar, Patrika, Pratahkal, Punjab Kesari, and Times. Arpit completed his schooling in Udaipur and Jaipur. He has been working in the media industry for more than 10 years, and his journey is still continuing. ✍️📚
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