Long queues formed at petrol pumps across Pakistan after the government announced a sharp increase in fuel prices, forcing motorists to wait for hours to fill their tanks.

Citizens were seen lining up at filling stations in several cities despite the higher prices, as the federal government raised both petrol and diesel prices by Rs55 per litre.

Following the increase, the new price of petrol has been set at Rs321 per litre, while high-speed diesel now costs Rs335 per litre.

The increase was announced during a media briefing by Deputy Prime Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, and Petroleum Minister Ali Pervez Malik.

Long queues at pumps in major cities

After the announcement, petrol pumps in several cities witnessed a rush of vehicles as citizens attempted to secure fuel.

In Karachi, long lines of cars and motorcycles were reported at multiple filling stations. Several pumps, including those along Sharea Faisal, were closed, leading to extended queues at operational stations.

Motorists complained of waiting for hours to buy fuel, while some pump owners faced allegations of charging higher-than-official prices.

In Islamabad, residents were also seen standing in lengthy queues at filling stations. Authorities issued a control room number — 051-9108084 — for citizens to register complaints or seek information.

A similar situation was reported in Lahore, where crowds gathered at petrol pumps after the announcement, with many motorists opting to buy fuel despite the steep price increase.

In Khairpur, several pumps remained closed, while at those where petrol was available, residents said fuel was being sold at prices exceeding Rs300 per litre, adding to public frustration.

Petrol price hike challenged in Lahore High Court

A petition has been filed in the Lahore High Court challenging the recent increase in petroleum product prices, arguing that the government’s decision to raise petrol prices by Rs55 per litre is illegal and anti-people.

The petition was filed by Azhar Siddique on behalf of the Judicial Activism Panel.

According to the petition, the increase in petroleum prices would raise the cost of transport, electricity, agriculture and food items.

It argued that oil marketing companies already have 15 days of petroleum stock available.

The petition stated that increasing prices despite having sufficient stock is illegal.

It also requested that the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority and the Ministry of Energy present details of petroleum reserves before the court.

The petitioner asked the court to declare the government’s notification regarding the increase in petroleum product prices null and void.