Karachi: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah announced a Rs55 billion targeted subsidy package to alleviate the financial burden on vulnerable communities affected by rising fuel prices. The initiative aims to provide relief to motorcycle riders, small farmers, and the transport sector amid escalating oil costs due to regional tensions.

According to Chief Minister Sindh, the subsidy package is a coordinated effort between the Sindh government and the federal authorities to address the economic challenges posed by the global oil crisis. The chief minister, flanked by provincial ministers and the Mayor of Karachi, emphasized the necessity of transitioning from blanket subsidies to a targeted system as recommended by the International Monetary Fund. This strategic shift aims to support the most affected segments of the population while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

The relief package includes Rs2,000 per month for registered motorcycle owners, Rs1,500 per acre for small farmers to aid in diesel costs for wheat threshing, and substantial subsidies for public transport vehicles to control fare inflation. Additionally, Pakistan Railways fares will remain unchanged, with the federal government absorbing the cost. These measures are part of a broader effort to stabilize the economy and protect the public from the impact of rising fuel prices.