Key Takeaways
- Petrol price increased by Rs4.10 per litre.
- HSD price increased by Rs6.41 per litre.
- Prime Minister's Fuel Relief Scheme to cover 11.8 million beneficiaries.
The federal government has announced an increase in the prices of petrol and high-speed diesel (HSD) effective from September 16, 2026. Petrol will now cost Rs384.34 per litre, up from the previous price, while HSD will be priced at Rs415.83 per litre, marking a rise of Rs6.41 per litre.
This adjustment follows a previous increase on September 15, where petrol and HSD prices were raised by Rs4.42 and Rs6.10 per litre, respectively. The latest hike is part of a new pricing mechanism introduced on July 17, which reviews and notifies prices on a daily basis.
In an effort to mitigate the impact of rising fuel costs on lower-income consumers, the Prime Minister's Fuel Relief Scheme will be rolled out across the country. According to the deputy prime minister's office, the scheme will offer a Rs100 per litre discount on petrol for motorcycles, three-wheeler rickshaws, and cars with engines up to 800cc. This relief will benefit an estimated 11.8 million individuals, with around 10 million two-wheeler users and 800,000 three-wheeler users set to receive the discount on 20 litres of fuel per month.
The decision to implement a daily pricing mechanism was made in response to renewed tensions between the United States and Iran, which have driven volatility in global oil markets and raised concerns over fuel supplies. The government's move aims to ensure that consumers are informed of price changes in real-time, allowing them to plan their purchases accordingly.
The Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division) issued a press release stating that the revised prices will take effect from September 16, 2026. The Oil and Gas Regulatory Commission is expected to monitor the market to ensure that the new pricing mechanism functions effectively and fairly.
The government's actions are part of a broader strategy to address the challenges posed by fluctuating global oil prices. By implementing a more frequent pricing mechanism and offering targeted relief to lower-income groups, the government aims to provide some relief to consumers while maintaining market stability.
