Government increases kerosene and light diesel oil prices by up to Rs68 per litre

ISLAMABAD: The federal government has announced a significant hike in the prices of kerosene oil and light diesel oil (LDO), raising them by up to Rs68 per litre. The new prices came into effect from Friday, according to an official notification.

The price of kerosene oil has been increased by Rs67.86 per litre, bringing the new rate to Rs186.86 per litre. Meanwhile, the price of light diesel oil has gone up by Rs68.21 per litre, now standing at Rs186.64 per litre.

The government stated that the decision to raise prices was made in line with the recommendations of the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA). The adjustment reflects changes in international market rates and aims to keep domestic prices aligned with global trends.

Kerosene oil is widely used in remote areas of Pakistan for cooking and lighting, especially where access to natural gas is limited. Light diesel oil is primarily used in the industrial sector and by small-scale machinery, including tube wells in the agriculture sector.

The notification did not mention any changes to the prices of petrol and high-speed diesel, which remain unchanged for the current fortnight.

According to the official statement, "The prices have been revised to reflect the fluctuations in international oil prices and the exchange rate." The government reviews petroleum product prices every fortnight, adjusting them based on recommendations from OGRA.

This latest increase comes amid ongoing economic challenges, with inflation continuing to impact households and businesses across the country. The rise in kerosene and LDO prices is expected to affect consumers, particularly those in rural and agricultural communities who rely heavily on these fuels.

The government last revised petroleum product prices two weeks ago. The current adjustment is part of the regular review process aimed at ensuring the stability of the energy sector and maintaining supply in the domestic market.