KARACHI: In an effort to mitigate the impact of rising fuel prices and inflation, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has unveiled a digital fuel subsidy programme for motorcyclists, alongside a comprehensive relief package that includes fare freezes and farmer assistance.

According to Chief Minister Sindh, the initiative forms part of a targeted subsidy framework aimed at providing financial support to vulnerable segments while ensuring economic stability. The programme includes a Rs2,000 monthly subsidy for registered motorcycle owners, equivalent to subsidising approximately 20 litres of fuel. The Excise and Taxation Department has launched an online verification system to facilitate registration, requiring applicants to provide their CNIC and bank account details.

Additionally, the government has abolished the Rs500 transfer fee for motorcycles to encourage ownership correction, with extended office hours to expedite registrations. A dedicated helpline has been established to assist applicants.

In collaboration with transporters, the government has successfully implemented a fare freeze, maintaining public transport fares at February 2, 2026, levels. This measure is supported by substantial subsidies to public transport operators, expected to cost between Rs3 to 4 billion. The initiative aims to benefit millions of daily commuters across Sindh’s transport network.

The relief package also includes a Rs3 billion subsidy programme for small farmers, set to launch this week. Overall, the targeted subsidy framework encompasses a Rs13.4 billion bike subsidy, a Rs14.3 billion monthly transport subsidy coordinated with the federal government, and a Rs3 billion farmer support package.

Chief Minister Shah emphasized the importance of financial inclusion through the promotion of bank account openings for direct transfers, ensuring transparency and genuine beneficiary assistance. The government has engaged with various stakeholders, including transporters and traders’ associations, to garner support for the relief measures. The chief minister expressed optimism that protests against petrol price hikes would be resolved through continued dialogue.

Murad Shah reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting citizens through targeted, transparent measures, highlighting ongoing efforts to extend relief for essential commodities amid challenging economic conditions.