Govt to Double Toll Tax on Motorways
Pakistan is currently facing a severe energy crisis. In a recent cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif constituted a committee to propose an energy conservation plan. The committee came up with multiple proposals. Here are the ones related to the auto sector.
The group consisted of Federal Minister for Finance Miftah Ismail, Minister for Energy Khurram Dastagir, Petroleum Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, and Minister for Media and Broadcasting Marriyum Aurangzeb.
- Petrol and diesel quota for government officials should be reduced by 33%.
- Sunday should be declared a vehicle-free day in big cities.
- The speed limit should be lowered on motorways and highways.
- Toll tax on motorways should be doubled for single-driver cars.
- Vehicles should be allowed to run on roads on alternate days based on even and odd number plates.
- Biannual tuning and inspection of motor vehicles should be made mandatory.
The Prime Minister has decided to discuss these proposals with the Chief Ministers of provinces before taking any action.
Govt’s Sasta Petrol Scheme
Earlier, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif launched a ‘Sasta Petrol Sasta Diesel’ scheme for underprivileged households. Under this scheme, the government is offering Rs. 2,000 subsidy to 8 million families with less than Rs. 40,000 monthly income.
At Rs. 210 per litre of petrol, daily commute has become a challenge for every Pakistani. Meanwhile, the next petroleum price revision is around the corner, and fuel prices are expected to go even higher.
What do you think about the ministries’ proposals to overcome the energy crisis in the country? Do you think providing Rs. 2,000 petrol subsidy can help the common man survive in this inflation? What about doubling the toll tax on motorways for single-driver cars and allowing vehicles to run on roads on alternate days based on even and odd number plates? Share your thoughts in the comments section.