ISLAMABAD, — September 18, 2026 — Pakistan has expanded its fuel relief scheme to include motorcycles, rickshaws and Qingqi rickshaws registered after January 1, 2006, allowing owners of vehicles up to 20 years old to register for the subsidy. (Dawn)
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif issued the new directives on Friday as the government widened the scope of the Prime Minister’s Fuel Relief Scheme. The scheme provides Rs100 per litre relief on petrol to eligible motorcycles, rickshaws, Qingqis and small cars. (Radio Pakistan) (Radio Pakistan)
Under the existing arrangement, motorcycle, rickshaw and Qingqi owners can receive the Rs100-per-litre relief on up to 20 litres of petrol each month. Owners of cars with engines up to 800cc are eligible for the same relief on up to 30 litres per month. (Dawn)
The government’s expansion comes as fuel prices remain elevated following disruption to international oil supplies linked to the wider Middle East conflict. Petrol was reduced by Rs0.43 per litre to Rs390.79 on September 18, while high-speed diesel increased by Rs3.47 to Rs424.92 per litre. (Dawn)
The relief programme has also faced implementation problems. During its initial nationwide rollout, some petrol stations reportedly declined to honour the digital subsidy because they lacked the required system, while petroleum dealers raised concerns about how reimbursement would be processed. (Dawn)
The government says the targeted scheme is designed to provide relief to lower-income users affected by rising petroleum costs. Officials said around 24 million people are benefiting from the programme, which is being implemented through a digital registration and verification system. (Radio Pakistan)
The inclusion of older motorcycles and three-wheelers means a larger number of daily commuters and small transport operators can now seek the Rs100-per-litre relief as the government attempts to cushion the impact of elevated fuel costs. (Dawn) (Dawn)
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