ISLAMABAD, November 4, 2026: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the petroleum minister to take strict action against petrol pumps failing to pass on government relief to consumers, following complaints about fuel retailers.
Addressing a federal cabinet meeting, the prime minister said several complaints had been received against petrol stations and instructed the petroleum minister to take decisive action against those responsible.
He said petrol prices had been expected to increase by Rs15 per litre on Friday, but timely intervention by the petroleum ministry and the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) prevented the increase.
According to the prime minister, the petroleum minister and OGRA engaged oil refineries to share their windfall profits, allowing the government to avoid passing the anticipated price increase on to consumers.
Shehbaz Sharif said the decision had protected motorists from an additional financial burden at a time when international oil prices were rising sharply.
Turning to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), the prime minister said the government was taking steps to end market manipulation and improve supplies through imports.
He said LPG imports would be used to provide relief to households and other consumers affected by rising energy costs.
The prime minister also highlighted the government’s fuel token initiative, saying approximately 75 million people had benefited from the programme, with Rs28 billion spent so far.
During the cabinet meeting, Shehbaz Sharif announced that a Rs160 billion package for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had been finalised on November 3.
He described security as the province’s first, second and third priorities, expressing determination to combat terrorism in cooperation with the new provincial government.
Discussing international developments, the prime minister said regional instability had contributed to a sharp increase in global oil prices, adding pressure to energy markets.
He said Pakistan remained engaged in efforts to promote regional peace and reduce tensions, referring to discussions held in Tehran in a constructive atmosphere.