ISLAMABAD — In a major step toward cushioning the impact of the recent energy crisis, the federal government has successfully disbursed Rs1.2 billion to over 32,000 beneficiaries in the first phase of the PM Fuel Package 2026. This digital rollout specifically targets the backbone of Pakistan’s supply chain, providing immediate financial lifelines to operators of trucks, buses, long-haul vehicles, and delivery vans.
Buses get Rs100,000 monthly, trucks Rs70,000; Rs129 billion relief rolled out, fares, freight kept unchanged
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— Profit (@Profitpk) April 6, 2026
Key Highlights
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First Batch Success: Rs1.2 billion has reached 32,000 transporters to offset the fuel price hike to Rs458.
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Digital-First Delivery: Payments are being processed through the easypaisa digital bank to ensure transparency and eliminate traditional “cash-based” delays.
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Expanded Coverage: While the first phase focused on heavy vehicles and trucks, the next phase will cover tank lorries and the high-demand motorcycle subsidy.
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Strategic Infrastructure: The initiative utilizes a network of over 59 million registered users to reach both urban centers and rural hubs.
A Transparent Safety Net
The use of digital wallets marks a departure from conventional subsidy models, aiming to prevent leakages and ensure that the “Fuel Relief” reaches the intended driver’s pocket instantly. Federal Minister for IT and Telecom, Shaza Fatima, emphasized that this rollout is a cornerstone of the “Digital Nation” vision championed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
“Digital finance can directly improve lives,” the Minister stated, noting that the speed of disbursement is critical given the current volatility in global oil markets. By bypassing manual verification at fuel stations and opting for direct-to-wallet transfers, the government aims to keep the transport sector operational despite the US-Iran conflict’s pressure on energy costs.
Facilitating the Logistics Sector
Jahanzeb Khan, CEO of easypaisa, confirmed that his platform is the first to facilitate these massive Government-to-Person (G2P) transfers for truck operators. This is particularly vital for the food supply chain, where trucks carrying essential items are now receiving direct monthly support of up to Rs70,000 as per the government’s earlier “Surge & Shield” strategy.
Upcoming Disbursement Tiers:
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Bikers: Capped at 20 litres per month with a Rs100/litre subsidy.
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Inter-city Public Transport: Eligible for up to Rs100,000 per month in cash support.
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Small Farmers: One-time harvest support of Rs1,500 per acre.
Economic Impact: Stabilizing Fares
The primary objective of this Rs1.2 billion injection is to prevent a massive hike in transport fares and food prices. By subsidizing the “diesel-heavy” logistics sector through digital wallets, the government is attempting to keep the cost of daily essentials stable for the common man in cities like Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi.
As the Islamabad Talks between the US and Iran approach on April 10, this domestic relief package acts as a critical stabilizer, ensuring the country remains functional while the leadership navigates the regional diplomatic storm.
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