On March 1, 2026, Pakistan's headline inflation is projected to rise to 7.2% year-on-year for February, the highest since July 2024, primarily due to seasonal price pressures during Ramadan and a low base effect, as reported by Taurus Securities Limited. This increase is exacerbated by a recent hike in fuel prices, with petrol rising by Rs. 8.00 to Rs. 266.17 per litre and high-speed diesel increasing by Rs. 5.16 to Rs. 280.86 per litre. Following this second major increase in petroleum prices, public transport fares have surged significantly, with the minimum fare now set at Rs30. Long-distance routes, such as Rawalpindi-Islamabad, have seen fare increases of Rs15 per passenger, while suburban routes have experienced hikes of Rs20. Intra-city routes have raised fares by Rs10, and even goods transport costs have risen, with Karachi to Peshawar transport increasing from Rs0.25 million to Rs0.27 million. This fare surge has sparked disputes between transporters and passengers, with conductors reportedly offloading passengers who refuse to pay the increased fares. Citizens have expressed frustration, noting that fare increases occur immediately after fuel hikes, while decreases are not reflected in transport costs, as highlighted by citizen Feroz Ali's comments on the unfairness of the situation.
BUSINESS
Pakistan Inflation Rises To 7.2% Amid Fuel Price Hikes
83% NEGATIVE
Pakistan's inflation is set to hit 7.2% in February 2026, driven by fuel price hikes and Ramadan pressures, causing transport fare surges and public discontent amid economic volatility.
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17 outlets · 36 articles
TLtribune.com.pk
STstartuppakistan.com.pk
BRbrecorder.com
TFPthefrontierpost.com
PPprofit.pakistantoday.com.pk
PRpropakistani.pk
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DTdailytimes.com.pk
DTPdailythepatriot.com