PM terms tech-based fuel subsidy a game changer

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the technology-led Fuel Relief Programme was progressing transparently and could make a significant difference to public welfare. At a review meeting in Islamabad, he instructed officials to withdraw permits from petrol stations that do not serve people enrolled in the scheme. The programme had registered more than 15.5 million people by November 4, including 15.06 million motorcycle owners and 449,000 owners of vehicles with engines up to 800cc.

By the same date, payments under the initiative totalled Rs28.6 billion, while more than 63.15 million fuel tokens had been issued and over 59.44 million used. Sharif said easier enrolment and payment arrangements had helped increase participation, and noted that dedicated call centres for consumers and petrol stations were handling information and complaints. He praised Information Technology and Telecommunication Minister Shaza Fatima, Secretary Zarar Hashim Khan and their team for creating the programme’s monitoring system and dashboard.