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PESHAWAR, Jan 01 (APP):People across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) have welcomed the recent reduction in prices of petroleum products by the Federal Govt, describing it as a much-needed relief amid rising inflation and economic pressures.
The experts appreciated Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz and his team for providing massive relief in petroleum products in Pakistan and termed it a gift of the new year. The cut in fuel prices has eased transportation costs and brought comfort to households and businesses struggling with high living expenses.
Riazul Haq, former PST teacher told APP on Thursday that the substantial decrease in petrol and diesel prices by Federal Govt has already begun to reflect positively in daily life.
Public transport fares, which had surged following repeated fuel hikes in KP, are expected to stabilize, offering relief to commuters who rely on buses, rickshaws, and taxis for their daily travel.
He said many drivers have expressed hope that the reduction will help them recover from months of financial strain caused by soaring fuel costs.
“This reduction has come as a great blessing,” said a local transport worker Haji Ehsanullah Khan in Peshawar. “Fuel prices directly affect our income. Even a small decrease helps us save money and reduces pressure on passengers.”
Shopkeepers and traders have also reacted positively, adding that fuel prices play a crucial role in determining the cost of goods. Zakirullah, a vegitable and fruit seller told APP at Pabbi bazzar that high transportation charges had previously forced vendors to increase prices, burdening consumers further. With fuel becoming comparatively cheaper, traders anticipate a slowdown in price hikes of essential commodities.
Economists believe the reduction could help control inflation if sustained over time. Petroleum products are a key input in transportation, agriculture, and industry, and any price adjustment has a ripple effect across the economy.
Professor Dr Zilakat Malik, former Chairman of Economics Department at University of Peshawar said that lower fuel costs may also encourage business activity and improve market confidence in the province.
He stressed that the relief should be long-term rather than temporary. “We have seen prices go down before, only to rise again within weeks,” he said. “The government should ensure stability so people can plan their expenses better.”Social media platforms were also flooded with reactions from the public, many praising the move while urging authorities to pass on the full benefit to consumers.
Users highlighted that any relief in fuel prices should translate into reduced fares and lower prices of essential goods. Experts emphasize that while the reduction is a positive step, broader economic reforms are necessary to ensure sustainable relief for the public.
They suggest improving energy policies, reducing taxes on fuel, and strengthening local production to minimize dependence on imports. For now, the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are hopeful that the decrease in petroleum prices marks the beginning of economic stability.
As inflation continues to challenge households, even modest relief measures are being embraced as a sign of responsiveness to public concerns.