Fuel hike may trigger power tariff rise

Federal Minister for Power Awais Leghari has indicated a possible increase in electricity prices following the recent surge in petroleum rates. According to the minister, consultations are underway to introduce energy-saving measures, including revised market timings. In a statement posted on social media platform X on Friday, the minister said the ongoing energy crisis is not limited to oil but also affects gas and furnace oil supplies, which could in turn impact electricity tariffs. He noted that the government is engaging with provincial authorities to adjust market hours and implement other conservation measures aimed at reducing overall energy consumption. Leghari emphasised that the government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, is making every possible effort to shield the public from additional financial burden. "If we all conserve energy, the pressure on the country will ease and improvement will come," he said. The development comes a day after the government announced a steep increase in fuel prices. The government on Thursday increased the petrol price by Rs137 per litre and diesel by Rs184.49 per litre, bringing the new rates to Rs458.40 and Rs520.35 per litre, respectively. The sharp hike has triggered strong criticism from the public and opposition parties, with several political groups announcing protests against the decision. The government, however, maintains that the increase results from rising global prices linked to tensions and conflict in the Middle East, asserting that the impact is being felt worldwide. Meanwhile, Adviser to the PM on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah warned that the situation could worsen further if the conflict persists, indicating that additional economic pressures may be unavoidable in the coming days.