Islamabad: Former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi has urged citizens to support the government following a sharp rise in fuel prices, as the country grapples with an intensifying oil crisis triggered by global tensions.
Pakistan on Thursday announced a steep increase in petrol and diesel prices, marking the second hike within a month. The move comes amid surging international crude oil rates linked to instability in West Asia.
Fuel prices surge amid global crisis
The latest revision has pushed diesel prices up by 54.9 per cent to 520.35 Pakistani rupees per litre, while petrol prices rose by 42.7 per cent to 458.40 rupees per litre. The new rates are set to take effect from Friday.
Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik described the increase as unavoidable, citing the continued rise in global oil prices due to geopolitical tensions.
Pakistan, which relies heavily on imported oil—primarily from Saudi Arabia and the UAE—has been significantly impacted by disruptions in supply routes, including the crucial Strait of Hormuz.
Afridi calls for unity and support
In a video message, Afridi appealed to the public to remain calm and extend full support to the government during the crisis.
He emphasised that Pakistan is still in a relatively better position compared to several other countries dealing with the same global energy challenges. Afridi urged citizens to cooperate with government measures to ensure stability and continued national progress.
“Supporting the government at this moment is most important. As Pakistanis, we should follow the steps taken so there are no obstacles in the country’s progress,” he said.
Inflation concerns deepen
The latest hike is expected to further fuel inflation in Pakistan, placing additional strain on households already dealing with rising living costs. Transport, food, and essential commodities are likely to become more expensive in the coming weeks.
Just last month, fuel prices were increased by nearly 20 per cent, reflecting the ongoing volatility in international oil markets.
Economic experts warn that repeated hikes could slow down recovery efforts and deepen financial stress among lower and middle-income groups.
Impact on Pakistan Super League
The oil crisis has also affected sporting events, particularly the Pakistan Super League 2026 season.
Originally planned across six cities—Multan, Peshawar, Faisalabad, Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Lahore—the tournament has now been restricted to just Karachi and Lahore as part of cost-cutting measures.
Additionally, the Pakistan Cricket Board has decided to cancel the opening ceremony to reduce expenses, reflecting the broader financial impact of the crisis.
Conclusion
As Pakistan faces mounting economic pressure due to rising fuel costs, Afridi’s appeal highlights the need for public cooperation during uncertain times. While the government maintains that the price hike is necessary, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining how the nation manages inflation and economic stability amid global challenges.