ISLAMABAD – A wave of panic is sweeping across Pakistan as a spike in global petroleum prices threatens to trigger major increase in domestic fuel rates. All eyes are now on the government, which is set to announce new petrol and diesel prices tonight.
Petrol pumps crew can be seen engaging with panicked buyers in apparent bid to manage the crowd. Similar scenes were reported in Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, Abbottabad and other parts of Pakistan.
پیٹرول کی قیمتوں میں ممکنہ اضافے کے پیش نظر پیٹرول پمپس پر گاڑیوں کا رش لگ گیا، لمبی قطاریں #Islamabad #petrolPrice #petrol pic.twitter.com/9HFPcSkils
— Sana Arshad (@sana_7223) April 30, 2026
Petrol Price Update in Pakistan
Meanwhile, Pakistani government is gearing up to shield inflation-weary public from staggering Rs40 per litre hike. In bid to soften the blow, officials have decided to issue the price notification a day earlier than expected—an emergency move aimed at easing the financial burden on consumers.
But signs of panic are already visible on the ground. Long queues have been reported at major petrol pumps across Pakistan, with citizens waiting for hours to fill their tanks before the expected increase. Many say fuel has already become unaffordable, and they are rushing to buy whatever they can now to avoid paying even higher prices.
Petrol and diesel prices are likely to rise by Rs 3 to Rs 4 per litre. The situation could worsen if the government opts to increase the petroleum levy, potentially pushing prices even higher.
The crisis may not end there. Sources warn that if tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz remain unresolved, the country could face an even bigger price surge on May 9, raising fears of another economic shock for already strained households.
Petrol Prices in Pakistan to cross Rs400 Per Litre from May 1 amid Record Hike in Crude Rates
